By Robert Mutasi 
Boda boda operators in Kesses, Uasin Gishu County, took to the streets on Saturday to protest the poor condition of roads and rising insecurity, calling on the government to urgently intervene and improve transport infrastructure in the area.
The riders staged a peaceful demonstration and blocked several roads around Kesses, saying the deteriorating condition of key routes had made movement difficult for motorists, passengers and other road users.
The protesters said some sections of the roads had become nearly impassable, particularly affecting boda boda operators who depend on the routes to earn a living.
Led by Boniface Ganda, the demonstrators called for immediate repairs, arguing that the state of the roads was not only affecting transport but also exposing riders to additional risks.
Ganda and other residents also criticised Kesses MP James Bett, accusing him of failing to adequately address transport-related challenges affecting residents of the constituency.
“We blame the area MP for his laxity. He has been sleeping on the job. Bett doesn’t know why he is in Parliament because he doesn’t participate in the House debates,” Ganda said.
The protesters’ concerns extended beyond roads, with boda boda operators raising alarm over attacks allegedly targeting riders along some routes.
According to the demonstrators, gangs have been attacking boda boda operators, creating fear among riders who often operate early in the morning and late into the night.
They said the insecurity has been worsened by inadequate street lighting, leaving some sections of the area poorly illuminated after dark.
The riders called for increased security patrols and improved lighting in areas considered vulnerable to criminal activity.
For many boda boda operators, the condition of the roads and insecurity are closely linked to their livelihoods. Poor roads increase the risk of accidents and damage to motorcycles, while insecurity can discourage passengers from using motorcycles, particularly at night.
The protesters said they want authorities to treat the condition of roads as an urgent issue and provide lasting solutions rather than temporary interventions.
The demonstration also highlighted the wider challenges facing residents in rapidly developing parts of Uasin Gishu, where increased movement of people and businesses has placed greater demand on road infrastructure and security services.
Boda boda transport remains an important means of mobility for residents, particularly in areas where public transport services are limited. Riders provide transport connections between residential areas, markets, businesses and other destinations.
However, operators say poor infrastructure continues to undermine their work and exposes them to additional operational costs.
The protesters’ decision to block roads temporarily disrupted movement in the affected areas as they sought to draw attention to their grievances.
They called on the government and local leaders to engage them and address the issues raised during the demonstration.
The riders also want authorities to consider improving street lighting as part of measures to enhance security and make roads safer for both pedestrians and motorists.
Residents have previously raised concerns about road conditions and security in various parts of Uasin Gishu, particularly in areas experiencing rapid urbanisation.
The latest demonstration places renewed pressure on leaders responsible for addressing infrastructure and security concerns affecting local communities.
While the protesters maintained that their demonstration was peaceful, their action demonstrated growing frustration over what they described as prolonged neglect of critical transport routes.
They now want relevant authorities to inspect the affected roads, identify sections requiring urgent repairs and provide a clear plan for rehabilitation.
They also want security agencies to increase patrols and investigate reported attacks against boda boda operators.
For the riders, improving the roads and strengthening security would not only make movement safer but also protect the livelihoods of hundreds of people who depend on motorcycle transport to support their families.
The protesters said they would continue engaging authorities through peaceful means as they push for action on the challenges affecting their daily work.