Influence of Bodaboda Riders’ Behaviour on their Socio-Economic Wellbeing in Lodwar Township in Turkana County, Kenya

Abstract

In Lodwar township, Turkana County, motorcycles popularly known as boda bodas have become more than just a convenient way to move people and goods; they are a lifeline for many households, offering employment and income in an area with limited economic opportunities. Yet, the very riders who enable this livelihood often engage in risky traffic behaviors, contributing to accidents, injuries, and disruptions of daily life. This study set out to (1) examine how boda boda riders’ traffic behavior affects road safety, (2) explore how riders’ socio-demographic characteristics age, education, gender, and ownership type influence their behavior, (3) determine the impact of boda boda operations on household socio-economic wellbeing, and (4) identify measures to improve rider conduct and community welfare. Guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior and the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework, the study adopted a descriptive research design, sampling 384 respondents from a population of 17,210 households, with additional insights from traffic police, hospital staff, and court officials. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 23, and qualitative data were thematically examined. The findings revealed that 68% of respondents reported frequent risky riding practices, 54% noted that these behaviors led to accidents affecting household income, and 62% observed negative impacts on daily socio-economic activities. Age, education, and motorcycle ownership type significantly influenced traffic behavior, while gender had no significant effect. While boda bodas provide essential livelihoods, unsafe practices erode household resources through medical costs, fines, and lost productivity. The study concludes that improving safety and wellbeing requires stronger legal frameworks, continuous rider training, and support for alternative income activities. Recommendations include road safety education programs, stricter regulatory enforcement, income diversification initiatives, and community awareness campaigns to foster safer roads and more resilient households.