The Digital Boda Drivers and Deliveries Association held a consultative meeting yesterday which was hosted by Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Mr. Jeremiah Mwenda
By Cynthia Masibo

In a move to address ongoing concerns, the Digital Boda Drivers and Deliveries Association held a consultative meeting on Sunday with the police at Kileleshwa Police Station. The meeting, hosted by Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Mr. Jeremiah Mwenda, was convened to address growing complaints from members of the association regarding alleged harassment by certain police officers on patrol. The officers in question were accused of unprofessional conduct, which had strained the relationship between law enforcement and boda boda operators.
During the meeting, OCS Mwenda reassured the association’s leadership of the police’s commitment to fostering a collaborative working environment, in line with the principles of community policing. He acknowledged the legitimacy of the complaints and confirmed that the officers implicated in the misconduct had been transferred. In their place, a new team of officers has been deployed to work closely with the boda boda riders to ensure the safety and security of the area.
“The police are here to serve and protect the community, including the boda boda riders who play a crucial role in our transport sector,” said Mr. Mwenda. “We are committed to maintaining professionalism in all our operations and ensuring that every citizen, including boda boda operators, can carry out their activities without fear of harassment.”
This commitment was warmly received by the association members, who had long sought redress for what they described as persistent and unwarranted targeting by certain police officers. The OCS further clarified that honest and law-abiding boda boda riders have nothing to fear, as the police are focused on ensuring a fair and conducive environment for everyone. He emphasized that the new team of officers is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism in their interactions with the public.
The association also took this opportunity to address the issue of documentation, which has been a recurring challenge for many boda boda riders. It was agreed that in instances where riders are found without the necessary documentation, the association will assist them in acquiring the proper papers. This approach aims to ensure that riders comply with the law while avoiding unnecessary confrontations with law enforcement.
Mr. Thomas, the Chairperson of the United Boda Association of Kenya (UBAK), highlighted the importance of a strong partnership between boda boda operators and the police. He noted that such collaboration is essential for the growth and development of the industry, as well as for the safety of both riders and the general public. Mr. Innocent from Nameri Sacco echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that a united front is key to overcoming the challenges facing the boda boda sector.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides expressing optimism about the future of their partnership. The association’s National Chairperson, Mr. Calvince Okumu, expressed gratitude for the police’s responsiveness and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to working closely with law enforcement. He emphasized that the Digital Boda Drivers and Deliveries Association is dedicated to promoting compliance with the law and enhancing the professionalism of its members.
“This meeting marks a significant step toward creating a safer and more professional environment for boda boda riders,” said Mr. Okumu. “We appreciate the efforts of Kileleshwa Police Station, and we encourage other stations to adopt a similar collaborative approach.”
The outcome of this meeting is seen as a milestone in the ongoing efforts to improve relations between boda boda operators and the police. It is hoped that this model of cooperation will be replicated across other regions, leading to a more secure and harmonious environment for all stakeholders in the boda boda industry.