Boda boda riders in Butaleja District are raising alarm over the increasing attacks by thieves who assault them and steal their motorcycles, many of which are rented from loan companies. The riders, who are now living in constant fear, say the thieves ambush them in isolated areas, leaving them vulnerable and without assistance.
The concerns were highlighted during a meeting held in Busaba Village, Butaleja District, organized by NRM mobilizer Ivan Naiguru Kinampuna. Naiguru is the founder of the 15-7-50 Boda Boda Economic Transformation and Empowerment Model, an initiative aimed at helping boda boda riders save money to purchase their own motorcycles and escape the cycle of renting.According to the riders, the thieves often target them on remote roads, where they are left with no help after being attacked. Many of the stolen motorcycles are rented from loan companies, leaving the riders burdened with debt and unable to continue their work.
Michael Bony Igenyi, the Butaleja District Chairperson, acknowledged the challenges faced by the boda boda industry in the area. He revealed that incidents of violence and theft occur almost weekly, with riders being attacked, injured, and left stranded. Igenyi called on motorcycle loan companies to take greater responsibility in tracking the motorcycles they lend out, ensuring they are not used for criminal activities. However, some boda boda riders expressed dissatisfaction with Ivan Naiguru’s empowerment initiative. They cited the requirement for each rider to contribute 7,000 shillings weekly as a challenge, arguing that not all stages (boda boda stages) have been able to benefit from the program due to financial constraints.
In response, Ivan Naiguru Kinampuna defended his initiative, emphasizing its goal of empowering boda boda riders and fostering economic development in the region. He explained that the program is designed to ensure that every stage receives motorcycles, ultimately reducing dependency on rented bikes and improving livelihoods. The meeting, which was attended by local leaders and security officials, including representatives from the UPDF, highlighted the urgent need for increased security measures to protect boda boda riders and their property. The riders called for stronger action against the criminals terrorizing them and expressed hope that the government and local authorities would address their concerns.
As the boda boda industry continues to play a vital role in Uganda’s transportation sector, the safety and empowerment of riders remain critical to ensuring sustainable development and economic growth in communities like Butaleja.
