Boda boda operators in Embu County are urging the government to subsidize electric motorbikes following a sharp increase in fuel prices.
In its October 15 to November 14 review, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) raised petrol prices by 12.93 shillings per litre, diesel by 9.90 shillings and kerosene by 28.49 shillings.
EPRA attributed the increases to rising landed costs and global supply disruptions caused by the escalating Middle East conflict.
Martin Munene, a boda boda operator in Gakwegori, Manyatta Constituency, said rising fuel costs were reducing their daily earnings. He noted that electric bikes could lower operating expenses but remained unaffordable for many riders.
Munene appealed to the government to introduce subsidies to make the bikes cheaper.
However, John Kivuti, another operator, said some electric models lacked sufficient capacity to carry heavy loads, limiting their suitability for certain businesses.
The riders want the government to act urgently.