Tuk tuks have taken over the transportation sector in most parts of the country.
In Mombasa, specifically Likoni area, they have grown to be popular than matatus. This has created employment opportunities to several individuals, including Kevin Wafula, a contented tuk tuk driver.
Kevin popularly known as ‘Baba Mary’ has been in the business for two years. His route of operation is the ‘Ferry-Ujamaa’ route.
Like any other public vehicle driver, his day starts at around 5am and ends late at night. He has however created a 2-hour resting period in the afternoon.
In his narration, ‘Baba Mary’ explains how he has managed to create a decent and stable income from the tuk tuk industry.
"At the end of each day, I have to pay the tuk tuk owner Sh1,000. The rest of the money I make after subtracting all the expenses I get to keep it. This means that I have to work extra hard in order to go back home with something tangible,” he said.
In one trip, a tuk tuk can carry a maximum of four to five passengers per trip with each person paying Sh20. The daily income one can generate is Sh3,000. After giving the boss his due, buying fuel and pay the parking space fee which costs Sh50 per day, Kevin roughly pockets Sh 1,500. This is equivalent to a monthly income of Sh 45,000 every month.
The husband and father of one, has managed to educate his daughter, provide a comfortable life for his wife and also set aside some savings.
With his little savings and the help of a loan, Kevin is looking forward to buying his own tuk tuk and finally become an entrepreneur.
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