Mbale City- In a significant boost to the welfare of Boda boda operators, Industrial City Member of Parliament Hon. Karim Masaba has donated hundreds of iron sheets and metal bars to seven boda boda stages across the constituency, enabling riders to construct much-needed weather shelters.
The donation, which includes high-quality pre-painted iron sheets and sturdy metal support bars, was handed over in a colorful ceremony attended by boda boda association leaders, local council officials, and hundreds of riders. Many riders currently endure scorching sun, heavy rains, and dust at open-air stages while waiting for passengers, often affecting both their health and earnings.
Speaking on behalf of Hon. Masaba, his PA Mr. Muwonge said the gesture was part of his commitment to supporting the informal sector, which forms the backbone of urban transport and livelihoods in the industrial city.
“Boda boda riders are the heartbeat of our local economy. They ferry our workers to factories, take children to school, and move goods across the city every single day,” Muwonge said. “Yet they have been operating under very difficult conditions with no shelter.
These iron sheets and metal bars will help them build decent shades where they can rest, protect their motorcycles, and even conduct small meetings. This is just the beginning of our support for the youth and hustlers.”
Leaders of the affected boda boda stages expressed profound gratitude. Mr. Hassan Okello, chairman of one of the beneficiary stages, described the donation as “a dream come true.”
“We have been requesting for shelters for many years without success,” Okello said. “The sun here is merciless, and when it rains, we all get soaked. Some riders even fall sick. Today, Hon. Masaba has shown that he truly cares about the common man. With these materials, we will start construction immediately.”
The seven beneficiary stages were selected based on need, passenger volume, and lack of existing infrastructure. Each stage is expected to receive enough materials to erect a functional shelter measuring approximately 10 by 6 meters, complete with a strong metal frame and durable roofing.
Local residents and business owners welcomed the move, noting that sheltered boda boda stages will also improve the overall appearance and orderliness of the areas. Several riders pledged to use the new shelters responsibly and maintain them well.
This donation comes amid growing national attention on the welfare of boda boda operators, who number in the hundreds of thousands across the country and play a critical role in reducing unemployment among the youth.
Political observers say such direct interventions in grassroots needs are likely to strengthen Masaba’s support base ahead of future elections.
Hon. Karim Masaba, who has previously supported youth groups with training equipment and women’s savings groups with seed capital, indicated that more infrastructure-focused projects are in the pipeline, including improvements to drainage and security lighting at major stages.
The riders’ associations announced they would begin construction within the next two weeks, with technical support from local artisans. Community members have already volunteered labor to fast-track the projects.
This latest act of philanthropy by the Industrial City MP underscores the power of targeted, practical interventions in addressing everyday challenges faced by ordinary citizens.
Speaking on behalf of Hon. Masaba, his PA Mr. Muwonge said the gesture was part of his commitment to supporting the informal sector, which forms the backbone of urban transport and livelihoods in the industrial city.
“Boda boda riders are the heartbeat of our local economy. They ferry our workers to factories, take children to school, and move goods across the city every single day,” Muwonge said. “Yet they have been operating under very difficult conditions with no shelter.
These iron sheets and metal bars will help them build decent shades where they can rest, protect their motorcycles, and even conduct small meetings. This is just the beginning of our support for the youth and hustlers.”
Leaders of the affected boda boda stages expressed profound gratitude. Mr. Hassan Okello, chairman of one of the beneficiary stages, described the donation as “a dream come true.”
“We have been requesting for shelters for many years without success,” Okello said. “The sun here is merciless, and when it rains, we all get soaked. Some riders even fall sick. Today, Hon. Masaba has shown that he truly cares about the common man. With these materials, we will start construction immediately.”
The seven beneficiary stages were selected based on need, passenger volume, and lack of existing infrastructure. Each stage is expected to receive enough materials to erect a functional shelter measuring approximately 10 by 6 meters, complete with a strong metal frame and durable roofing.
Local residents and business owners welcomed the move, noting that sheltered boda boda stages will also improve the overall appearance and orderliness of the areas. Several riders pledged to use the new shelters responsibly and maintain them well.
This donation comes amid growing national attention on the welfare of boda boda operators, who number in the hundreds of thousands across the country and play a critical role in reducing unemployment among the youth.
Political observers say such direct interventions in grassroots needs are likely to strengthen Masaba’s support base ahead of future elections.
Hon. Karim Masaba, who has previously supported youth groups with training equipment and women’s savings groups with seed capital, indicated that more infrastructure-focused projects are in the pipeline, including improvements to drainage and security lighting at major stages.
The riders’ associations announced they would begin construction within the next two weeks, with technical support from local artisans. Community members have already volunteered labor to fast-track the projects.
This latest act of philanthropy by the Industrial City MP underscores the power of targeted, practical interventions in addressing everyday challenges faced by ordinary citizens.
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