Dokolo boda rider “shamed, washed and fined” for body odour

Dokolo | Boda boda riders are common in the bustling town of Kangai, located in Dokolo district. 

They play an important role in the town’s daily activities, transporting people to their destinations.

However, one rider recently made headlines for the wrong reasons.

Geoffrey Obura, 20, has become the talk of the town due to his messy body.

After receiving numerous complaints from customers about his unpleasant odour while on duty, the Kangai town council boda boda association took action.

Obura was not only washed, but he was also ordered to pay a fine for failing to maintain proper hygiene.

Tonny Eudu, the disciplinary chairperson of the Kangai town council boda boda association, stated that the decision to wash Obura was made after careful consideration of numerous customer complaints.

“The association, together with its members, collected a sum of shs35,000 and bought new clothes, soap, and smearing oil to ensure that Obura looks presentable after being washed,” he said.

This is not an isolated incident; the association has stated that similar actions will continue to ensure that boda boda riders are clean and presentable while on duty.

Cyrus Engwedu, the association’s security officer, emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness among riders because it improves the association’s image.

To reinforce this, the association has enacted a strict dress code policy.

Sam Odur, another boda boda leader in Kangai, confirmed that the association has ordered all riders to wear trousers while on duty.

“Anyone found not adhering to this policy will not be allowed to operate their motorcycle until they change into the appropriate attire,” he noted.

Odur also emphasized the importance of boda riders remaining alert at all times, given that they are responsible for transporting important individuals such as civil servants and other officers.

Additionally, according to Odur, the association has been actively encouraging its members of the value of having a well-functioning family.

This includes ensuring that their children attend school and that their wives participate in activities to support the boda boda business.

This, he said, not only raises the standard of living for riders and their families, but it also promotes a positive image of the industry in the eyes of the general public.

In a highly competitive industry, it is critical to maintain not only a clean and presentable appearance but also a professional demeanor.