Asset financier Watu has committed to enhancing the efficiency and service delivery of boda boda offices across Kenya by donating essential office equipment.  This includes laptops, office tables, printers, customer service benches, and office chairs to county offices regardless of their association, aiming to meet the diverse needs of their communities.

Watu Kenya Country Manager Erick Massawe noted that this initiative would enable these offices to better serve their members by offering services such as training, organizing members in Saccos, and improving safety standards for both riders and passengers through self-regulation.

"Many offices have been struggling due to a lack of proper facilities, and this equipment distribution is a step towards addressing those challenges," Mr Massawe said after furnishing the Kisumu County boda boda office.

“Our goal is to empower the boda boda offices with the tools they need for efficient management and improved service delivery."

The initiative is part of Watu's broader strategy to mainstream the boda boda sector by organizing riders into various units across the country. These units consist of 17,000 stages and county offices, designed to help regulate the sector, provide a platform for members to give feedback on service delivery, and address social concerns such as widespread boda boda theft and the use of boda bodas in criminal activities.

Kisumu County Boda Boda Chairman Jacob Ogambo lauded Watu for their donation, highlighting its impact on the community.

“With the new equipment, we are now better positioned to serve our members and the greater Kisumu community. We are grateful for Watu’s generous donation and for empowering us to self-organize,” Kisumu County Boda Boda Chairman Jacob Ogambo said.

Boda Boda riders in Kenya are typically required to register with a local stage, each having its chairman, rules, and regulations. These stages play a crucial role in the daily operations of riders, ensuring free movement within designated areas for a nominal fee.

The equipment donation is expected to enhance the administrative capabilities of these stages, leading to better service delivery and more organized operations.

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Innovative financial solutions

In Kusumu, Watu engaged the boda boda chairpersons from Busia, Bungoma, vihiga, Nandi, Uasun Gishu, Bomet, Kisii, Migori, Homa Bay and Trans Nzoia counties on safety procedures. This engagement underscores Watu's strategy in fostering collaboration while addressing the needs of the boda boda community at the grassroots level.

Watu has established itself as a leading asset financier in Kenya, offering innovative financial solutions to help Kenyans acquire motorbikes and other assets through a buy-now-pay-later plan.

This model has enabled many Kenyans, including those excluded by mainstream financial institutions, to acquire two- and three-wheeler motorbikes and other assets, such as mobile phones.

The boda boda sector is a critical player in Kenya's economy, employing hundreds of thousands of young Kenyans. However, the sector faces a lot of challenges, including a lack of proper regulations, and instances of criminal activities.

By equipping boda boda offices with the necessary tools and resources, Watu aims to address some of these challenges, promoting a safer and more organized industry.

Watu's efforts also align with broader national and regional initiatives to improve road safety and enhance the regulatory framework for boda bodas.

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