Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria’s new move to increase the number of bodaboda operators in the constituency is a bitter-sweet move for the sector that is already facing the challenge of “overcrowding”.

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Kuria’s recent announcement that he will launch a programme through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) which will see 1,000 women trained as bodaboda riders is a positive move as it will create employment but may also cripple the sector."Through the CDF, we shall train 1,000 ladies including single mothers so they can get licences to ride bodabodas. Through Uwezo Fund we shall then assist them own bodabodas through SACCOs and Self Help Groups," read Kuria's Facebook post in part.In any business, if supply exceeds demand, then the price drops; meaning while Moses Kuria’s intentions may be pure, the implementation of his programme will result in low returns for bodaboda operators.Currently, bodaboda operators charge at least Sh50 for a ride, and with an additional 1,000 riders in the market, competition for the limited customers available will be stiff leading to a drop in prices.If the fare drops because of excess supply, some riders will not manage to collect enough money for the day to pay bodaboda owners and for their daily needs.If these newly trained operators do not set base in other constituencies or counties, the sector will be crippled.

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