More than 250 boda boda operators from Matulo ward in Webuye West sub county received driving licenses after going through rigorous training in a driving school in Webuye town. The move aims to conform with the new guidelines set out by the Ministry of Transport, which has targeted the boda boda sector, set to streamline the sector and improve safety. In December, Interior CS Fred Matiang’i extended the deadline fro the application of new stringent rules for the sector to May this year. Addressing boda boda operators at Muliro gardens in Webuye after handing over more than 250 licenses, Matulo MCA Paul Wamalwa Wanyonyi lauded the training exercise under his initiative after holding a funds drive a month ago to support the operators to get licenses, where more than Kshs 700,000 was collected.
The Matulo MCA urged the youths within the sector to work together and respect their job, given it’s like any other job that can help them earn a living, adding that the Bungoma County government will help them acquire County stickers. He appreciated the good gesture shown by Devolution CS Eugene Wamalwa, Senate Speaker Ken Lusaka, Bungoma Governor Wycliffe Wangamati and other leaders who attended the funds drive that made the training exercise a reality. Those who received the licenses lauded the MCA for supporting the boda boda sector, by making sure they get the licenses and alo pledging to provide County stickers. Some also noted they’ve received bursaries for their children and said they’ll work hand in hand with him. They urged other leaders in Bungoma County to mirror what the Matulo MCA had done and support boda boda operators in the County as they are also tax payers and deserve support.