By Jamirah Khassim
The Uganda Boda Union has unveiled a youth empowerment campaign in Kawempe Division aimed at tackling unemployment and poverty by supporting young riders with motorcycles, financial tools, and a path to home ownership.
Spearheaded by Union Chairman Frank Mawejje, the campaign brings together boda boda companies including Simba, Honda, and Spiro, which are offering motorcycles on loan to youth as a means to generate income and uplift livelihoods.
Speaking at the launch, Mawejje urged riders to join the Uganda Boda Sacco (Savings and Credit Cooperative Organization), describing it as a gateway to financial stability and long-term prosperity.
“Dear riders, please join the Boda Sacco to help you increase your financial needs,” he said, addressing a large gathering of riders and community members.
The launch also drew support from local security officials, who emphasized the importance of rider registration and vowed to crack down on illegal operators, locally known as “ggali.”
“We’re committed to supporting this initiative, but riders must also play their part by registering at their stages,” one official said.
“Those who continue to operate under the radar will face the full force of the law.”
In a bid to broaden the scope beyond income generation, the Union also introduced its “Union Village” housing initiative, which encourages members to invest in long-term housing solutions.
“We want to move beyond just surviving — we want our riders to dream big, own homes, and build better futures,” Mawejje added.
The campaign is seen as a major step toward formalizing the boda boda sector, which is one of Uganda’s largest employers of youth.
With plans to expand the initiative beyond Kawempe, the Union hopes to create a nationwide impact in transforming the lives of thousands of riders.
