The Mombasa Transport Queens (MTQ), an association of women drivers in Mombasa, has raised concerns over harassment and unfair treatment by men in the transport sector.
Speaking to the media, Miriam Mulwa, the MTQ representative, stated that women in the transport industry face numerous challenges, particularly from male passengers.
Mulwa highlighted that many men refuse to pay for transportation services offered by women, a growing issue affecting female drivers.
“Men are our biggest challenge in this sector. The level of respect towards us is low, they take us for granted, and some even refuse to pay after we transport them,” Mulwa said.
She further revealed that some male passengers threaten female drivers when asked to pay for services rendered.
Mulwa also raised concerns about mistreatment from law enforcement officers.
She claimed that many female drivers experience harassment from traffic police, with some being detained without valid reasons.
“Sometimes, we find ourselves in police stations without cause. They harass us and expect us to give them TKK (a term for bribes),” she added.
Despite these challenges, Winfred Ndunge, a Tuk Tuk operator, encouraged women to embrace the transport industry.
Ndunge, who has been a Tuk Tuk driver for 10 years, emphasized that women have the potential to thrive in the sector and earn a decent living.
“Any woman can work as a driver. I have been a Tuk Tuk driver for a decade, and it has helped me support my family,” Ndunge said.
She urged women to join the transport industry despite the obstacles, stressing that financial independence is achievable through the profession.