Of these, 93 per cent are self-employed or operate at motorcycle stages, with 15 per cent being women, a report by asset financing company, Mogo, indicates.
In its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) and Impact Report 2025, the digital credit provider offering asset-backed and consumer financing solutions across Kenya notes that 57 per cent of its portfolio was located outside the country’s major urban centres, indicating how the Boda boda industry remains a key income generator in rural parts of the country.
80 per cent of motorcycle loans were issued for income-generating purposes, 17 per cent were issued for personal use, with the remaining share reflecting unspecified use.
About 38 per cent of customers who completed their loans returned for additional financing.
This, as sector research further highlights the financial benefits of motorcycle ownership, indicating that riders who own their motorcycles can save more than Sh440,000 over five years compared with riders operating rented bikes.
Industry data shows Kenya’s registered Boda boda numbers rose by 500, 000 from 2021-2024 to a total of 2.4 million nationwide, with the number currently having risen.
The sector contributes approximately four per cent of national GDP, estimated at Sh600 billion.
During the year, Mogo expanded access to motorcycles and smartphones in the country, financing more than 72,000 mobility assets.
At the same time, the launch of phone financing broadened digital connectivity and saw over 100,000 smartphones financed during the year.
“Expanding access to finance has remained a key feature of our growth. In 2025, most customers served were first-time clients, reflecting our reach into new customer segments across Kenya,” said Domas Mineikis, country manager, Mogo Auto Limited.
“At the same time, 38 per cent of customers who completed their loans returned for additional financing, demonstrating sustained demand.”
Mogo’s operations are guided by structured environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, the company affirmed.
In 2025, Mogo established a formal Environmental and Social Policy and Environmental and Social Management System to integrate environmental and social risk considerations into credit and operational processes.
“Given the central role of motorcycles in income-generating activities, Mogo promotes road safety and responsible asset use,” the firm, which also extends cars, tuk tuks, and logbook-backed loans against existing vehicles, said.
The Boda boda sector remains one of the biggest employers in the country, with the government pushing for reforms in the sector, including saccos to support growth for individuals.
Internal Security and National Administration PS Raymond Omollo, who last week chaired a Boda boda Stakeholder Engagement Forum in Busia County, called on riders to embrace organisation, work closely with security agencies, and actively participate in government empowerment programmes.
Similar engagement forums have been conducted in Kilifi, Kisumu, and Homa Bay counties, and will continue across all 47 counties.
