By Kepher Otieno - Reporter
Kenya, 5 August 2026 - The fight against motorcycle theft has moved to the top of the agenda for one of Kenya's leading asset financiers.
Mogo Kenya has opened fresh consultations with boda boda leaders from Western and Nyanza in an effort to strengthen security for riders and protect livelihoods increasingly threatened by criminal gangs.
The discussions, held on Wednesday, brought together Mogo Deputy Country Director Branton Sammy Mutea and county boda boda chairpersons from Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Vihiga and West Pokot, alongside other sector officials. Their focus was clear. How to curb the growing wave of motorcycle theft and improve the safety of thousands of riders who depend on the industry for their daily income.
The meeting reflected growing concern over organised criminal networks targeting commercial motorcycles. For many riders, the loss of a motorcycle is more than a financial setback. It is the loss of a family's primary source of income.
Mutea said Mogo was committed to working closely with security agencies and boda boda operators to eliminate insecurity within the sector. He said sustainable solutions could only be achieved through coordinated action involving financiers, law enforcement agencies and riders themselves.
"We are committed to cooperating with the security forces and boda boda riders to rid the sector of insecurity. A secure operating environment protects livelihoods, strengthens investor confidence and enables riders to carry out their businesses without fear," Mutea said.
Participants explored stronger collaboration between financiers, boda boda associations, law enforcement agencies and local leaders. They argued that timely information sharing, rapid reporting of theft, rider sensitisation and the adoption of improved security measures could significantly reduce motorcycle-related crime.
Industry leaders said insecurity remains one of the biggest threats facing the boda boda sector despite its enormous contribution to Kenya's economy. They noted that protecting riders and their motorcycles is essential to sustaining employment, expanding financial inclusion and ensuring confidence in motorcycle financing.
The consultations also underscored the growing role of private sector players in addressing challenges that extend beyond financing. By engaging directly with riders and their leaders, Mogo signalled its intention to become an active partner in promoting safer operations within the transport sector.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen cooperation and implement practical interventions aimed at reducing motorcycle theft while improving the safety and welfare of boda boda operators across Western and Nyanza. Participants expressed optimism that sustained collaboration with security agencies would help dismantle criminal networks and create a safer environment for thousands of riders whose livelihoods depend on the industry.
This version retains the original flow while strengthening the analytical tone and incorporating Branton Sammy Mutea's remarks naturally.
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County boda boda leaders welcomed the initiative, saying the fight against motorcycle theft requires stronger partnerships between riders, financiers and security agencies.
Kisumu County Boda Boda Chairman Jacob Ogambo said insecurity continues to deny many riders their livelihoods, noting that criminals have become more organised. "We welcome Mogo's commitment to work with us and the security agencies. The safety of every rider must remain a shared responsibility because when a motorcycle is stolen, an entire family loses its source of income," he said.
Siaya County Chairman Joseph Ochola said the industry was ready to support intelligence-led efforts to track stolen motorcycles and identify criminal networks. He urged riders to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly to the authorities.
Homa Bay County Chairman Kennedy Debe said closer collaboration among financiers, boda boda associations and law enforcement agencies would significantly deter theft. He noted that riders must also embrace discipline and comply with registration and identification requirements to enhance security.
Vihiga County Chairman Frankyline Mushile said continuous engagement between stakeholders would build trust and improve information sharing. He added that preventive measures and public awareness would be more effective than reacting after motorcycles have already been stolen.
West Pokot County Chairman Moses Loitasewa described the meeting as timely, saying insecurity affects both rural and urban riders. He called for sustained joint operations and stronger enforcement to protect riders and preserve confidence in the boda boda industry.
Busia County Chairman Bonface Okumu said the sector has become a critical pillar of the regional economy and deserves greater protection. He urged riders to work closely with security officers and financiers, saying unity and vigilance would be crucial in eliminating motorcycle theft and making the industry safer for all.