By: Cynthia Masibo
The Digital Boda Drivers and Deliveries Association of Kenya (DBDAK) has called for urgent legal recognition and protection of motorcycle riders and delivery personnel operating under e-hailing platforms such as Uber, Bolt, Glovo, and their respective food delivery services.
This comes as the association submitted a petition to various stakeholders, including the County Government of Nairobi, the Parliament of Kenya, and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), demanding swift action to address the growing challenges in the sector.
With the rapid growth of digital platforms in Kenya, the boda boda industry, which provides essential last-mile connectivity, has experienced significant transformation.
While these technological advancements have created new opportunities for riders, they have also introduced critical challenges.
Calvince Okumu, Executive Chairperson of DBDAK, emphasized the dire need for intervention to prevent the exploitation of riders and delivery personnel.
“Thousands of riders are facing unfair conditions due to the lack of legal recognition and protection. We are seen as independent contractors but are subjected to conditions that give tech companies excessive control, without the basic employment rights that should accompany such control,” Okumu said.
The petition outlines several pressing concerns faced by digital riders, including unfair pricing formulas, lopsided contracts, and the arbitrary deactivation of accounts by Transport Network Companies (TNCs).
Riders are also forced to work under unsafe conditions, with no benefits, while enduring long hours that barely guarantee a living wage.
One of the core grievances involves oppressive pricing mechanisms that leave riders with insufficient earnings after accounting for operational costs. “The platforms have excessive commissions, and with the current rates, many riders can hardly make ends meet,” the association stated.
DBDAK also highlighted violations of Kenya’s Data Protection Act by TNCs, citing instances where riders’ personal information was mishandled. Additionally, the absence of a clear legal framework for digital riders has allowed for arbitrary actions by TNCs, further worsening the situation.
The DBDAK has submitted petitions to specific companies and government bodies, seeking immediate reforms.
They have called on Uber, Bolt, and Glovo to revise their payment systems to ensure fair compensation, reduce commissions, and introduce transparent mechanisms for account deactivations and complaint handling.
Furthermore, the association urged the County Government of Nairobi to establish safe parking and waiting areas for riders and collaborate with welfare organizations to safeguard their interests. The petition also demanded that Parliament pass legislation recognizing digital riders as a unique subsector within the transport industry, with appropriate legal protections.
The current legal framework does not adequately address the digital riding sector, leaving riders vulnerable to exploitation. DBDAK is advocating for amendments to the NTSA (Transport Network Owners, Drivers, and Passengers) Regulations of 2022 and the Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill of 2023. These amendments would include provisions to protect digital riders from arbitrary actions and ensure fair treatment.
To protect riders and enhance the industry, DBDAK proposed the enactment of a “Digital Riders Law,” which would regulate pricing, commissions, and contract terms. The association also called for the introduction of a minimum wage for digital riders, the establishment of collective bargaining rights, and a cap on commissions charged by TNCs at 10%.
In conclusion, Okumu urged all stakeholders to take immediate action. “Riders are a vital part of Kenya’s transport and employment infrastructure. Without legal protections, they will continue to face exploitation. We call for urgent legislative and regulatory measures to ensure fairness and equity for all involved.”
The DBDAK remains hopeful that the petition will lead to meaningful reforms that safeguard the rights and welfare of digital riders across Kenya.
Suleiman Mbatiah 
Mt Kenya Times