Kisii Governor urges Boda Boda riders to join Saccos, invest in Agribusiness

Boda boda operators in Kisii County have been urged to join Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (Saccos) to improve their access to affordable credit, diversify their sources of income, and strengthen their financial stability.

Speaking during a meeting with more than 500 boda boda riders at Kisii Stadium, Kisii Governor Simba Arati encouraged the operators to embrace a savings culture and invest beyond the transport sector, particularly in agriculture.

The governor challenged the riders to organise themselves through Saccos, pool resources, and acquire land for commercial farming to position themselves as key suppliers of raw materials for upcoming agro-processing industries in the county.

“You need to come together, pool your resources and acquire enough land where you can engage in agribusiness. Diversify your income instead of relying solely on the boda boda business,” Arati said.

He revealed that the county government has secured investors from Dubai who are set to establish an avocado and coffee processing factory at Tongeri Industrial Park in Bomachoge Borabu Constituency.

According to the governor, the project is expected to create employment opportunities for young people in both the transport and manufacturing sectors while boosting the local agricultural value chain.

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Arati further announced that a banana processing factory will also be established at Isamwera in Bonchari Constituency, creating an additional market for local farmers and expanding employment opportunities.

The governor encouraged the youth to take advantage of the anticipated industrial growth by enrolling in technical and vocational training courses such as carpentry, joinery, plumbing, and masonry, saying the skills would increase their employability in the emerging industries.

He also urged boda boda operators to remain disciplined, united, and focused on long-term economic empowerment through savings and investment.

Arati advised the riders to start small by saving consistently through Saccos and preparing to supply avocados, bananas, coffee, and other agricultural produce to the processing factories once they become operational.

He said the county government’s industrialisation agenda aims not only to create jobs but also to empower local entrepreneurs and farmers by building sustainable value chains that will stimulate economic growth across Kisii County.

By Enock Okong’o