Wetang’ula Urges Boda Boda Riders to Help Fight Teenage Pregnancies, Tells Uhuru to Give Ruto Space

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged boda boda operators in Busia County to play a greater role in protecting young girls from sexual exploitation and the rising cases of teenage pregnancies.

Wetang’ula said boda boda riders are an important part of Kenya’s transport system, providing quick and accessible transport to millions of people, particularly in rural areas and during emergencies.

He spoke during a boda boda empowerment drive at Ojaamong Comprehensive School in Busia County, where he was joined by President William Ruto’s aide Farouk Kibet, Teso South MP Mary Emase and other leaders.

Wetang’ula challenged riders to use their close connection with communities to help safeguard children, saying they can contribute to creating safer environments for young girls.

The Speaker also highlighted several national government projects in Busia, including the Busibwabo Export Processing Zone (EPZ) and the Bunyala Irrigation Scheme, which he said could contribute to economic opportunities for residents.

He also raised concerns over the exploitation of Busia’s mineral resources, particularly gold.

Wetang’ula said residents had expressed concern that despite the county having significant mineral deposits, there was not enough local expertise to support commercial mining.

He said greater investment in skills and technical capacity would be important if communities are to benefit from the county’s mineral wealth.

Wetang’ula tells Uhuru to give Ruto space

The Speaker also turned his attention to the ongoing political differences between President William Ruto and retired President Uhuru Kenyatta.

Wetang’ula urged Uhuru to refrain from interfering with the leadership of President Ruto and instead give the sitting government time and space to implement its agenda.

His remarks come amid renewed public exchanges between Ruto and his predecessor. Ruto has recently accused Uhuru of opposing his administration, while Uhuru has rejected claims that he is sponsoring opposition activities. The Star+1

Wetang’ula's call adds to growing debate among political leaders over the role former presidents should play in active politics.

The Speaker made the remarks as he continued his engagement with residents and boda boda operators in Western Kenya, where empowerment programmes have increasingly been used to highlight government development projects and economic opportunities. kenyanews.go.ke

For the boda boda operators gathered in Busia, however, Wetang’ula's message went beyond business and empowerment. He urged them to recognise the influence they have in their communities and use it to protect young people while contributing to safer and more responsible communities.