Delivery of urban transport in developing countries: the case for the motorcycle taxi service (boda-boda) operators of Kampala

In East Africa, the development of the bicycle and motorcycle taxi (boda-boda) service can be seen as a spontaneous entrepreneurial response to the increased availability of bicycles and motorcycles. Concomitant with the increasing number of boda-boda operators is the escalating passenger safety concern. A needs assessment survey instrument was administered to randomly selected motorcycle boda-boda operators from a Kampala suburb (Kalerwe and Bwayise locations). Besides safety, the questionnaire addressed issues related to preferred equipment type, ownership, operator training, profitability and operators' attitudes toward organised association. The results of the study support the notion that it is difficult for boda-boda operators to make substantial improvements in their incomes. The results also illustrate the importance of this emerging cottage industry to the local economy. However, more needs to be done to protect the public and to enhance the boda-boda operators' professionalism.