Bungoma boda boda riders trained in emergency response

Boda boda riders in Bungoma County have been equipped with first aid skills for emergency response through road safety training conducted by the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) Bungoma in partnership with the Kenya Red Cross and St John's Ambulance.

The move is aimed at enhancing road safety and reducing accident fatalities.

Area member of Parliament John Makali described the initiative as a crucial step to improving safety.

“Boda boda operators are often the first responders at accident scenes, making their ability to provide immediate assistance crucial,” said Makali.

“Such training empowers them to save lives and mitigate the severity of injuries before professional medical help arrives.”

Makali underscored his passion and commitment to improving road safety by supporting such hands-on training.

“We are dedicated to creating safer roads for all users,” he affirmed. “This training is a vital step in achieving that goal.”

Victoria Koi, Principal of KMTC Bungoma, highlighted the program’s far-reaching impact noting that most deaths related to road accidents happen between the incident and the hospital transfer.

“By providing these skills, we are not only equipping riders to handle emergencies effectively but also fostering a culture of proactive safety,” she said.

“KMTC’s mission is to ensure that no lives are lost unnecessarily, especially on our roads.”

The training comes at a crucial time, as boda boda operators increasingly dominate Kenya’s roads. Once overshadowed by matatu drivers and conductors, they have now become the most visible figures on highways and urban streets alike.

Meshack Wenani, a boda boda rider, expressed gratitude for the training. “This has been invaluable,” he said. “We now feel more confident in our ability to respond to accidents and assist those in need. We look forward to further training opportunities to enhance our skills.”