The consideration of the Public Transport Motorcycle Regulation Bill, 2025 is set to continue in the National Assembly, despite its sponsor, Senator Boni Khalwale, formally requesting its withdrawal following public opposition.
The Bill, which seeks to establish a legal framework for the regulation of Kenya’s boda boda (motorcycle taxi) industry, had already been passed by the Senate. However, on March 7, 2025, the Senate Speaker submitted a letter from Senator Khalwale asking for the Bill to be withdrawn, citing mounting public concern over its potential impact on livelihoods.
Despite the request, National Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula ruled that deliberations on the Bill would proceed, after a majority of MPs voted against halting its progress. This decision clears the way for further scrutiny, debate, and amendments by the parliamentary Committee on Transport and Infrastructure.
Chaired by Ndia MP George Kariuki, the committee has committed to expanding stakeholder consultations and organizing public participation forums to ensure that the legislative process is inclusive and reflects the interests of all affected parties.
The Bill proposes significant changes to the way boda boda operations are managed in Kenya. Key provisions include the formation of County Motorcycle Transport and Safety Boards responsible for rider registration, training, and operational oversight. It also mandates that all boda boda riders and motorcycle owners join transport SACCOs (Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations), and participate in structured training programs covering road safety, customer etiquette, and emergency response.
While the proposed law has drawn support from the Kenya Bureau of Standards and the Digital Boda Association, both of whom recommend targeted amendments, others remain skeptical. Ride-hailing firm Bolt has expressed support but also called for specific revisions to address operational concerns. However, the Boda Boda Safety Association of Kenya has outright rejected the Bill, labeling it as damaging to the economic wellbeing of thousands of riders and informal operators.
As public and parliamentary discourse around the Bill intensifies, the next steps will focus on refining the legislation to balance regulation with economic realities. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for Kenya’s informal transport sector, which supports millions of livelihoods across the country.
Written By Rodney Mbua
