DNK International Busia County’s ambitious plan to transform the boda boda industry is steadily becoming a reality, with the construction of the Busia Boda Boda Business Centre gathering momentum as the county government intensifies its youth empowerment agenda.
During an inspection tour of the project on Wednesday,County Secretary and Head of Public Service, John Oscar Juma, led a multi-agency team to assess the progress of the flagship facility, describing it as a major investment that will improve livelihoods and create sustainable economic opportunities for thousands of motorcycle riders across the county.
The inspection team included Chief Officer for Public Works John Muroki, Chief Officer for Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue Economy and Agribusiness and Acting Chief Officer for Devolution and Governorship Elijah Mwaro, Chief Officer for Trade, Industries, Investment, Cooperatives and SMEs Vincent Wanjala, Busia County Boda Boda Chairperson Boniface Okumu, together with other county officials and stakeholders.
Addressing stakeholders at the site Juma said Governor Paul Otuoma believes that meaningful youth empowerment begins with organization, discipline and enterprise development.
He noted that the Governor has consistently encouraged young people to form structured groups capable of attracting investment, accessing government support and participating effectively in economic development.
“The Governor’s vision is to create an environment where young people are not only employed but are also able to build sustainable businesses,” Juma said.
“This business centre is designed to provide boda boda operators with a modern, organized and secure working environment while opening up new opportunities for trade and entrepreneurship.”
According to county officials, the Busia Boda Boda Business Centre will serve as more than just a parking facility.
It is expected to become a commercial hub offering organized operational spaces, business support services, improved safety, financial inclusion opportunities and better access to government and private sector programmes.
Officials say the project will also enhance professionalism within the boda boda industry, improve customer service, reduce operational challenges and stimulate economic activity in Busia town.
Juma assured riders and residents that the County Government remains committed to delivering a quality project within the stipulated timelines, adding that continuous supervision and collaboration with all stakeholders will ensure value for public investment.
The boda boda sector has become one of Kenya’s largest sources of employment, particularly for young people who often struggle to access formal jobs.
In Busia County, where cross-border trade and transport play a critical role in the local economy, the sector serves thousands of commuters and traders every day while supporting many households through direct and indirect employment.
County officials believe that investing in dedicated infrastructure for the sector will improve working conditions, promote order, strengthen road safety and increase incomes for riders.
For many boda boda operators, the new business centre represents recognition of their contribution to the county’s economy and a shift towards treating the industry as a strategic economic partner rather than merely an informal transport service.
As construction progresses, expectations remain high that the facility will become a model for youth enterprise development and demonstrate how targeted public investment can transform informal businesses into organized engines of local economic growth.
[DNK-International@July 22,2026]
