NTSA Cautions Women on the Dangers of Sideways Seating on Boda Bodas

NTSA has warned passengers against sitting side-saddle on motorcycles, saying the posture greatly increases the risk of serious injury during accidents.

The agency noted that many women continue to sit sideways on boda bodas, often due to clothing considerations, but stressed that the practice compromises balance and makes falls more likely. South Nyanza NTSA Manager Adan Adow said motorcycle stability relies on even weight distribution around the centre of gravity, and that passengers seated directly behind the rider with legs astride are better able to maintain balance during sudden movements.

Research supports the warning, showing that side-saddle passengers face a higher chance of being thrown off during emergency braking because they lack proper footrests and handholds. Officials also cautioned that loose clothing can become caught in the wheels.

NTSA added that riding posture is only one part of broader safety requirements. Helmets remain mandatory under the Traffic Act, and riders may carry only one passenger. These measures aim to curb the rising number of motorcycle-related deaths and injuries.  

Kenya recorded 4,748 road traffic deaths in 2024, up from 4,513 in 2023, with pedestrians accounting for 40 per cent of fatalities. Speaking in Homa Bay ahead of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, Mr Adow urged road users to exercise caution and said public officers must lead by example.

Officials also highlighted the growing role of mental health in road safety. NTSA has partnered with the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) and Go Beyond Limited to promote awareness of psychological well-being among drivers and riders. KeNHA’s Nyanza Regional Director, Julius Mak’Oderoh, said human factors contribute to as much as 80 per cent of crashes, noting that stress, depression, and anxiety can impair judgement and slow reaction times.

Go Beyond Limited Chief Executive Damaryce Ndira said behavioural change is closely linked to mental health. Her organisation runs programmes such as “Walk and Talk” and “Safari Salama” to support wellness and encourage safer behaviour on the roads.

Officials acknowledged that boda bodas remain essential for transport across the country but continue to feature prominently in serious crashes.