Assessing the training and safety status of motorcycle transportation in Kakamega County in Kenya

Abstract

The objective of the study was to assess the training and safety levels of the motorcycle transportation in Kakamega County. Data was collected through simple random sampling where 480 questionnaires, were administered to boda boda operators, health facilities and law enforcement officers. The study found that majority of the boda boda operators were operating without valid licenses; only 35.6% of the operators were licensed; contrary to the Kenyan Traffic Act which requires each operator to have a valid license. The study indicated that 51% of the operators were trained in motorcycle riding through apprenticeship; 33% through driving school and 16% through self-training. Majority of the boda boda operators (61%) have not been trained on road safety. This shows a gap in safety training programmes and implementation of the same. The study result showed a relationship between the number of years in operation and accidents. Majority of the operators involved in the accidents had been in operation for less than 5 years whereas those who had been in business for more than 10 years had fewer accidents. There was significant statistical relationship between the number of years in operation of the boda boda and involvement in an accident (χ2= 3.299, df= 3, p < 0.05). The results also show that there was significant statistical difference between the licensed boda boda operators who had an accident (χ2= 1.172.; df = 1 p < 0.05). Licensed operators who had undergone training in the driving school were aware of the risks and hazards involved while riding the boda boda hence observed road safety measures. Operators who did not have safety training but were involved in accidents constituted 53% compared to 47% who had gone through training. Those who had undergone through safety training and had got accidents (χ2=4.744,df=1,p<0.05) was significant. The results also indicated that most accidents involving boda boda riders were as a result of inexistent road safety measures and lack of training. The study has demonstrated that there is a gap in training and awareness on boda boda safety measures hence an urgent need to implement training and awareness programmes to improve the knowledge, perceptions and practices of boda boda operators in Kakamega County.