By Tony Wafula
For years, many boda boda operators in Western Kenya have struggled with poor financial planning and debt but the introduction of digital finance tools is now enabling riders to monitor their loans, plan repayments and build more sustainable livelihoods.
The financial literacy training for boda boda operators in Western Kenya was rolled out by Mogo aimed at empowering boda boda operators to practice responsible borrowing and improve their financial wellbeing.
The training is designed to help operators grow their income sustainably while avoiding the debt trap that often comes with uninformed borrowing.
The programme is designed to equip the riders with practical knowledge to make sound borrowing decisions and manage their finances more effectively.
As part of the initiative, a mobile application app has been introduced that gives customers greater transparency and control over their loans. The app allows users to access payment schedules, track installments, view arrears or overpayments and download payment statements.
This enhances transparency, convenience and responsible repayment by keeping borrowers informed at all times.
The training targets boda boda operators and chairpersons of boda boda SACCOs across Western Kenya, including Kakamega, Busia, Vihiga, Bungoma and Trans Nzoia counties.
“The company has been at the forefront of championing the welfare of boda boda operators, whose contribution to the economy cannot be ignored. Through financial literacy, we aim to empower riders to increase their income, support their families and contribute to economic growth,” said Sheila Wangari Nuni, Community and Events Manager at Mogo.
Wangari affirmed that the sessions cover the full loan journey before, during and after borrowing.
“The goal of these sessions is to ensure that boda boda operators, especially SACCO chairpersons, clearly understand our processes so they can make informed decisions and responsibly guide their members,” she added.
Kakamega boda boda leaders praised the company app saying it will boost transparency between their members and Mogo.
“The financial training will help our members focus on growth and avoid debts that have negatively affected their lives and families,” said Peter Ochango, Boda Boda Chairman, Kakamega County.
“The Mogo App is also good news because it improves transparency in repayments by putting all the information directly in the hands of our members,” he stated.
According to a recent report by Viffa Consult, boda boda operators earn an average Sh1,100 per day, however, many struggle to save or meet household needs due to poor financial planning and the burden of unsustainable debt.
The report recommends integrating loan programmes with tailored financial education that addresses the diverse needs of operators. While core training should focus on budgeting, saving and managing business expenses, more advanced content is also critical.
This includes debt and credit management, savings and investment strategies and pathways from self-employment to formal business creation.
