Yesterday, we put all of the Safe Ride boda bodas in Kyangwali on the path to having a license and being legal drivers. Today, we’re focused on safety.
Kyangwali is a dusty place. Dirt, grit and small rocks can kick up into our boda boda drivers eyes. It’s very dangerous for them and for their riders. “I have to spend money on tablets because of the dust,” said Boda Boda Driver Chris. “Insects go into my ears and eyes and make me cause accidents.” Some boda bodas have crashed and died because of the conditions in the settlement.
So on Day 255, safety was on the top of our minds. We needed to get these guys the helmets they needed to keep themselves and their passengers safe. With our changemaking budget of $500, we were able to purchase 19 helmets. Because there are many more than 19 boda bodas, we devised a scheme. The boda bodas will pay a little each month until their helmets are fully paid. Once they’ve fully paid, a helmet can be purchased for the next driver.
The boda bodas were relieved. Some even paid for their helmets right there on the spot. “The helmet will protect my head,” said Joseph Juma. “And, you know, without a functioning head almost everything is gone.”
Once all the riders have repaid their helmets, they’ll still have the original $500. They’ll use that to start their own shop where they can get spare parts and accessories for their motorcycles at reduced prices.
Another change made possible by Atomic Data.
