Boda boda operators in Nyali have raised alarm over persistent challenges affecting their livelihoods, including harassment by law enforcement, poor road infrastructure, and limited access to financial empowerment.
The concerns came to the fore on during a meeting organized by Team Elkana Jacob Mashinani, representing Nyali MP aspirant Elkana Jacob. The forum brought together operators from major stages such as QuickMart, Links Road, and Zamzam to deliberate on security, livelihoods, and civic responsibility.
Nyali Sub-county hosts an estimated 4,000 boda boda riders, who play a central role in local transport and community safety.
Their chairman, Josephat Otieno, popularly known as Captain, emphasized that boda boda operators feel neglected despite their crucial contribution to the economy. He lauded Elkana Jacob for showing consistent concern for the community.
“We have seen many politicians, but the uniqueness of Elkana Jacob, even in his absence today, is that he follows up on matters and constantly checks on the people. Those are the leaders we need,” he said.
Human rights defender Ali Rajab, 22, echoed similar sentiments, praising Jacob for recently supporting a family whose infant’s body had been held at the Coast General Hospital mortuary for two months over unpaid bills.
“I don’t know Elkana Jacob personally and have never met him. But hearing testimonies from the families he assisted moved me deeply. Those are the leaders we want,” Rajab said.
Rashid Mfano and Bahati Kazungu, who led the meeting, urged the riders to continue being peace ambassadors even as they push for better working conditions.
“You know every corner of Nyali, every detail of the community. Report any suspicious characters to the security agencies. We need a peaceful Nyali where people can live, do business, and invest,” Mfano told them.
The Mashinani team pledged to address boda boda operators’ concerns through training, financial inclusion initiatives, and stronger community engagement, positioning Elkana Jacob as a candidate keen on grassroots empowerment.
