“Bodaboda” Services and Their Socio-Economic Impacts in East Africa: An Empirical Literature Review

John Subhe Masatu & Balthazar Charles Mwita
Tanzania Institute of Accountancy (TIA), Mwanza Campus, Tanzania
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0007-6822-7938 – Masatu
https://orcid.org/0009-0006-8817-4129 – Balthazar – Mwita
Email: john.masatu@tia.tz

Abstract: Over more than two decades “bodaboda” services have become common among the East African countries Kenya and Tanzania inclusive. Despite its commonness in the area, its socio-economic impacts emanating from business have not been well searched, compiled and documented. The study aimed to explore the socio-economic impacts of “bodaboda” services in Kenya and Tanzania using empirical literature review. Compiled and documented impacts are essential for different stakeholders engaging in the business. The study adopted empirical literature review design. The design enabled authors to collect data from 26 published authentic secondary data sources between 2019 and 2024 in Kenya and Tanzania using inclusion and exclusion principles. Data were analysed by using frequencies and percentages. The results from study have shown that 66.7% “bodaboda” generate economic benefits to operators and help customers to access in difficult geographical environment. However, the study revealed that 71.4% “bodaboda” service led to disability and death among its users as negative impacts among others. The study concludes that “bodaboda” services results into both positive and negative impacts. To avoid negative impacts, the study recommends routine awareness programmes into operators, introduction of digital “bodaboda” monitoring system (DBMS), installation of cameras in every zebra crossing lines and traffic lights in cities and towns, and manufacturers to reconsider alternative strategy including improved safety gears for operators and passengers. Moreover, law enforcers should make sure that every bodaboda driver own health insurance as a requirement among others when processing or renewing licence to ensure access to medication services in case of emergency.