The Safe Boda focus on Safety is key for me and the quality of the riding gear given shows that they value the lives and safety of both the rider and the passenger which for me is a big deal.
The boda boda industry is emerging as one of the biggest drivers of the economy and one company – Safe Boda, is at the forefront of disrupting this industry.
Safe Boda has become a game changer by ensuring its community of riders are extensively trained in road safety, first aid and customer care to making them the safest and most professional. One such rider is Simeon Mogeni, here’s his story.
When did you join the SafeBoda Community?
I trained with them in March of 2018 and joined their operations in June of 2018 when they officially launched operations in Kenya
There’s so many other app companies you could have joined or even continued your entrepreneurial journey as a sole proprietor, why SafeBoda?
The Safe Boda focus on Safety is key for me and the quality of the riding gear given shows that they value the lives and safety of both the rider and the passenger which for me is a big deal. As a matter of fact, even when I was doing this boda business for myself, you would never catch me on the wrong side of the road as is commonly seen with the boda industry.
How did you get into the industry?
I was looking for something to do to achieve my dream of still pursuing a Bachelor's degree in as much as I hadn’t performed very well in my high school studies. A friend at the time introduced me to the trade and I have never looked back since.
How long have you and bikes had a relationship and what kind of relationship is it?
I’ve ridden bikes for the last 6 years and I really enjoy the freedom this hobby and now business gives me.
How so?
The boda business though slowly catching up as an acceptable means of transport for the urban Nairobian has pretty decent return on investment provided you invest correctly i.e.: -
1. Well serviced good quality bike,
2. Proper safety gear
3. Maintain acceptable speed – speeds above 40 kph especially with a passenger on board rarely ends well unless of course your ultimate goal is to die
4. Discipline
5. Observe traffic rules and have the right papers – insurance and licenses – this will save you a whole load of trouble and running games with the authorities.
Aside from the bike relationship, are you seeing anyone?
*Laughs* yes, my wonderful wife Janet – we got married last year actually so no kids yet, I know you’re going to ask.
What or who inspires you?
His name is Isigi Macheneri, founder of the Children’s home I grew up in. He is deceased but was I really admired him growing up. He taught us the value of hard work, standing by your principles and putting God first in everything we did. In as much as he was very authoritative, he was also a very jovial and funny man and we all held him in very high regard.
Any final thoughts?
Anyone who knows me knows I am a man of principles. Coming from a children’s home as well, I am a firm believer in helping anyone who comes my way with my mantra, you grow, I grow!
Originally published by SafeBoda.
