Lari Member of Parliament Mburu Kahangara has launched a Sh1 million boda boda empowerment programme in Kiambu County, aimed at improving the welfare of motorcycle operators in the constituency.
Under the initiative, each ward in Lari will receive Sh200,000 in the first phase to support financial stability, road safety, and the overall wellbeing of riders. The programme was unveiled in Kijabe ward, where local leaders and residents welcomed the move as a boost to youth livelihoods.
Kahangara urged operators to form and strengthen savings and credit cooperatives (Saccos) to access loans, insurance, and structured savings platforms, saying organized groups would enjoy greater bargaining power and financial discipline.
“I encourage you to establish functional ward Saccos, which will be of great help in accessing financial support from the government and other stakeholders,” he said.
The MP also reviewed completed development projects in Kijabe, citing progress in education, roads, security, and social welfare, while pledging to extend the empowerment programme to all wards in Lari constituency.
“We will continue with these empowerments in all our areas to ensure that everybody gets government support to uplift their standards,” he added.
Boda boda operators welcomed the initiative as timely. David Maina, a rider from Kijabe, said the programme would transform livelihoods.
“With this programme, we can now think about saving and even accessing loans to expand our work. For many of us, this is the first time we are being included in such opportunities,” he said.
Boda boda transport remains vital in Kenya, offering last-mile connectivity and jobs for young people, despite challenges such as lack of insurance, financial exclusion, and safety risks.
Kahangara closed the event with a call for unity and resilience, telling residents: “Bado tunasonga.”
