Abstract:
Motorcycle related accidents have been on the increase despite the establishment of the
National Transport and Safety Authority (Operations of Motorcycles) Regulations,
2014.Currently, motorcyclists contribute up to 20% of all deaths recorded in the country
every year. This study therefore aimed at: examining the influence of transport safety
policies on motorcycle industry, explaining the causes of motorcycle accidents,
explaining the challenges facing the implementation of the policies and examining the
measures to mitigate the challenges. Literature review was organized thematically
based on the study objectives. This study adopted the elite model of policy making. A
conceptual framework was also used to explain the variables which directed the study.
This study embraced a descriptive survey research design methodology. A mixed
method approach was used to collect data. Questionnaires, interview guides and focus
group discussions were employed as data collection tools. Purposive sampling
techniques were used to sample the study area, key informants and the interviewees.
Stratified random sampling was used to sample the respondents. Qualitative data was
analysed by categorizing it into themes and narratives based on the study objectives.
Quantitative data was analysed through descriptive analysis techniques and managed
using SPSS Version 24.0. Since the study was descriptive in nature, quantitative data
obtained was presented in the form of pie charts and bar graphs for easy understanding.
Findings from both qualitative and quantitative data analyses indicated that the existing
transport safety policies had achieved little on the boda boda industry as accidents were
largely caused by human error. Bribery, ignorance and poor implementation of the
existing policies emerged as challenges. This study therefore recommended that
sensitisations on the safety policies be carried out on all riders. There is also need to
make motorcycle license and insurance fees affordable to all riders by subsidising the
current fees. In addition, more rider training schools be established in the rural set ups
to enable the riders acquire proper riding trainings. Further, the study recommended
that separate motorcycle lanes be constructed on major highways and speed governors
be properly mounted on all motorcycles and also the initiation of electronic payments
of fines.
