More than 1,000 boda boda riders in Vihiga County have received certificates and driving licences after completing a road safety training programme.
The programme was organised by the Vihiga County Government in partnership with Sigalagala National Polytechnic.
The training was aimed at improving road safety, professionalism and compliance with traffic rules among motorcycle operators.
During a certificate and licence award ceremony in Mbale on Thursday, September 3, 2026, Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo congratulated the riders who completed the programme.
Ottichilo encouraged more boda boda operators to undergo proper training and obtain smart driving licences.
He said the boda boda sector plays an important role in Vihiga’s economy by creating jobs and generating revenue for the county government.
According to the governor, the county has collected more than KSh11 million in revenue from the boda boda sector.
He also noted that the industry provides employment for thousands of young people and helps keep them away from crime and other social problems.
The governor said his administration plans to provide offices for boda boda operators to improve coordination and service delivery.
He also encouraged riders to join Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (Saccos), saying the groups could help them save money, invest and grow their businesses.
Ottichilo further urged the riders to support President William Ruto’s re-election bid, arguing that cooperation between the county and national governments could help Vihiga secure more development projects.
With the 2027 General Election approaching, he also called on the riders to remain peaceful and disciplined.
Vihiga County Boda Boda Chairman Frankline Muchile thanked the county government and Sigalagala National Polytechnic for supporting the training programme.
Muchile encouraged more riders to take advantage of similar programmes, saying better training and compliance with traffic regulations could help reduce road accidents and improve the image of the boda boda industry.
The event was attended by Vihiga Deputy Governor Wilberforce Kitiezo, county officials and boda boda representatives from the county’s five sub-counties.