Lumakanda boda boda welfare group in Lugari sub-county received a car washing machine courtesy of the county government of Kakamega. Speaking while handing over the equipment to the group, Lumakanda Ward Administrator, Mr. Fredrick Osundwa, reiterated the county government’s agenda that is geared towards improving the living standards of boda boda operators.
“The county government appreciates the economic role played by boda bodas, especially in the transport and communication sectors,” remarked Osundwa who noted the machine will also create employment opportunities. He encouraged boda boda riders to boost their savings and therefore enhance chances of accessing development loans from lending institutions by forming cooperative societies. “We want to see boda boda operators venture into small-scale business enterprises across the county, “noted the administrator.
Besides the washing equipment, the administrator disclosed that a group of 41 boda boda riders, currently undergoing driving lessons, will be issued with licenses upon completion of their training. The training which is sponsored by the county government aims to enhance the safety of the boda boda riders as well as restoring sanity into the sector. “Our government will continue sponsoring the training until all designated boda boda operators are fully trained and issued with valid driving licenses,” said Osundwa.
The county government has partnered with Focus Driving School in the training exercise. He appealed to the group not to indulge in criminal activities and instead work closely with security agencies in order to ensure the security of the area is maintained.
Mr. Ben Kilungu, the group’s chairperson, expressed his gratitude towards the county government. “My colleagues will work with all development conscious leaders, regardless of their political affiliations,” said Kilungu.