A feature on Mwelekeo TV has brought fresh attention to the boda boda business in Kenya, challenging the common belief that it is only a low-paying and unstable job.
In the show, host Kevin Waswa speaks with boda boda rider Phineas Shitsukane, who shares a different side of the industry. He explains that while many still see the work as risky and poorly paid, some riders are quietly earning good money through smart decisions and discipline.
Phineas begins by explaining how much the sector has changed over the years. In the past, most riders would wait by the roadside for customers and negotiate prices on the spot.
This method often led to low and unpredictable earnings, with many riders only making enough for daily needs like food and fuel. Today, things are different. Many riders now use ride-hailing apps such as Bolt, Uber, Farasi, and Little. These platforms connect riders directly with customers, making it easier to get more trips in a day.
He explains that using these apps reduces the time spent looking for passengers. Riders can see where a customer is, where they are going, and how much they will earn before accepting the ride.
This helps them plan better and avoid wasting time. According to Phineas, riders who stay active on the apps and move quickly between trips can complete many rides in a single day.
Location is another key factor.
Phineas points out that riders working in busy areas such as Nairobi’s central business district, near universities, hospitals, and large markets, tend to receive more requests. In these places, traffic is often heavy, and many people prefer boda bodas to save time.
A rider in a good location can complete between 20 and 30 trips daily, especially during morning and evening rush hours.
Even if each trip pays a modest amount after deductions, the total income can grow steadily by the end of the day.
He also shares simple habits that help increase earnings. Keeping the motorcycle in good condition is important, as breakdowns can lead to lost time and income.
Regular servicing, clean tires, and proper lights ensure safety and reliability. Phineas adds that being polite, dressing neatly, and treating customers with respect improves ratings on the apps. Higher ratings often lead to more ride requests.
In addition, some riders build a base of regular customers such as office workers and students. These clients provide steady income and sometimes offer tips.
Phineas explains that riders who treat the job like a business, track their expenses, and manage their money well are more likely to succeed.
Over time, consistent savings can allow them to expand, such as buying additional motorcycles or investing in other ventures.
The discussion highlights that while many people focus on the daily cash riders earn, the bigger picture is often missed.
With discipline, long working hours, and smart strategies, some boda boda operators are able to achieve real financial progress. Phineas’s story shows that the industry is evolving, and those willing to adapt can find new opportunities within it.
The Mwelekeo TV show offers a practical look at how the boda boda sector is changing in Kenya today.
It encourages riders to think beyond daily survival and shows that with the right approach, even a common job can open the door to long-term stability and growth.
