Motorcycle taxi or boda boda transport as it’s commonly known in Uganda, is a job mainly dominated by men. But one woman is bucking the trend and earning a living as a boda boda driver.
One kick start and she’s off to work. Riding a motorcycle taxi is Naome Awero’s trade.
Naome has been in the business for 4 years now.
“At first it was not easy; when I joined some taxi riders did not welcome me. They thought I was interfering with their job, while others scared me that I will die at the hands of iron bar hit men.” Naome said.
Her confidence on the road has helped her become a favourite for many motorcycle taxi lovers.
One of her clients praises her skills.
“She is a good rider compared to most of the riders in town. She doesn’t panic while riding.” Iftarizabayo said.
Courage is required for all of Kampala’s motorcycle taxi riders – given the heavy traffic on the city’s busy roads.
Naomi says it’s something she’s just had to get used to. She’s cautious – knowing that Many people have been involved in motorcycle accidents in the city.
“I take my time to see if am on the right, am I supposed to go or am I supposed to wait. Sometimes we get accidents through our clients…they rush us but most times I tell them to find another means of transport if they are in a hurry.” Naome said
According to recent statistics from Uganda’s traffic police 43 people died and 203 were seriously injured in the month of June and may.
Naomi is married to a fellow motorcycle rider and he supports her choice of job.
After work, we put together our money and decide how much to spend and also save.
For Naome riding a motorcycle taxi is a source of income for her family, but it’s also a milestone in breaking stereotypes.
