Homa bay: A non-governmental organization has begun a financial literacy training program for boda boda riders in Homa Bay County, with the goal of improving their economic well-being. The organization, known as Mogo, aims to educate over 50,000 riders to foster a culture of savings and investments.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mogo's Community and Events Manager, Sheila Nuni, emphasized the potential for the boda boda sector to transform the local economy if operators adopt financial discipline and embrace a savings culture. Nuni highlighted that despite earning an average of over 1,000 shillings daily, many local boda boda operators struggle to save.
Mogo has initiated this training to enhance the financial management skills of the riders. Nuni pointed out that financial challenges faced by the riders often stem from poor budgeting and unsustainable debt burdens. She stated that Mogo's objective is not only to assist operators in acquiring motorbikes on credit but also to build their capacity for effective financial management.
During the training in Homa Bay town, Nuni encouraged boda boda riders to ensure they understand loan agreements before signing. Additionally, Mogo has introduced a mobile application called the Mogo App, designed to help riders track their transactions when purchasing motorbikes on loan.
Homa Bay County Boda Boda Association Chairman Ken Dede and Rangwe constituency counterpart Kennedy Oure welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that it will instill fiscal discipline among riders. Dede noted that a lack of financial management knowledge has led to loan repayment defaults and the repossession of motorbikes purchased on credit, and they are optimistic that the training will alter financial behaviors.