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Joseph Simiyu, a motorcycle taxi (boda boda) operator has shared his journey of resilience.

The father of four’s world was turned upside down after a motorist knocked him down in Kenya’s capital Nairobi.

“I was on the side of the road and the motorist hit me and fled the scene. I woke up in the hospital,” he told CGTN Africa.

Simiyu’s left leg sustained irreparable tissue damage, and doctors had to amputate it.

The next few months were challenging for Simiyu as he struggled with accepting losing his leg.

But eventually:

“I came to terms with losing my leg and that the life I lived before had changed.”

The orphaned breadwinner had no other means of survival, and he turned to begging in the streets for alms.

“My life changed when I met a certain woman.”

Instead of offering Simiyu money, the Samaritan told him that he could get back on a boda boda and be self-sufficient, as long as he believed in himself.

“I took a motorcycle and returned to work.”

So, how does Simiyu ride with one leg?

“Balancing a motorcycle is done with the left leg — it’s mostly on the ground. The right foot operates the brakes.

I did not modify my bike since the starter and front brakes are the handlebars. I also use gears to slow down.”

The rider noted that he understands that he is at a disadvantage and is extra careful when negotiating corners and on slippery surfaces.

“I prioritize safety. When I wake up each morning, I talk to God to help me transport my clients safely.”

Simiyu encouraged people living with disabilities not to give up, and instead look for meaningful economic activities to pursue.