Upon the culmination of their academic pursuits, numerous Kenyans nurture aspirations of securing lucrative employment to sustain their daily lives. However, Hilary Kiplagat deviates from this expectation. Despite attaining a First-Class Honours Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce from the University of Nairobi and furthering his education with a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, he finds himself entrenched in the Boda Boda sector.
Operating his motorcycle at Torongo Trading Centre in Eldama Ravine, Baringo County, Kiplagat now relies on this unexpected avenue for his livelihood. “I’m committed to persisting in my boda boda business until a benevolent individual intervenes,” remarks Kiplagat, who retains optimism about securing a white-collar job in the future.
Kiplagat articulates the challenges of his role as a boda boda rider, underscoring the stress associated with it. Despite his academic achievements, he grapples with the perplexity expressed by employed peers and University of Nairobi alumni, who question his decision to remain in this line of work.
Expressing his financial obligations, Kiplagat conveys a willingness to transition into a position aligned with his academic expertise. His ultimate goal is to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Procurement. Confronting societal skepticism, he endeavors to convince others that, despite his university education, he has chosen to engage in the boda boda business.
Kiplagat emerges as a beacon of hope within the boda boda community, having purchased his motorcycle for Ksh 102,000 using savings and stipends received during his master’s program. Despite the challenges, he attests to earning between Ksh 500 and Ksh 700 on a good day.
