In the bustling streets of Timbwani Ward, Likoni Sub-county, Mombasa, where motorbikes weave through traffic and riders work tirelessly to make a living, a quiet revolution has been brewing. At the heart of this movement is Kombo Charo, a passionate member of the local boda boda (motorcycle taxi) group. Kombo’s journey from an ordinary rider to a community advocate is a testament to the power of civic education and the impact it can have on local development.
Before his involvement with Kwacha Afrika’s civic education initiative, Kombo, like many of his fellow boda boda riders, felt disconnected from the processes that shaped his community. The lack of understanding about public participation and access to government services left him and his peers feeling powerless and marginalized.
Reflecting on those early days, Kombo shared, “We used to think that the decisions made by the county government were beyond our reach. We didn’t know we had a voice or the power to influence the development of our community.”
This mindset began to change when Kombo was introduced to Kwacha Afrika’s Tuyazungumuze community initiative, supported by DANIDA through Uraia Trust. The initiative aimed to empower citizens with knowledge about their rights and responsibilities, particularly in the context of the county’s development processes. For Kombo and the other boda boda riders, this was an eye-opening experience.
The civic education training provided by Kwacha Afrika covered a range of critical topics, including the budget cycle, constitutionalism, the Bill of Rights, and access to information in Mombasa County’s budget-making processes. These sessions were designed to demystify complex governmental processes and equip ordinary citizens with the knowledge they needed to engage meaningfully in public participation.
Kombo recalled the transformative impact of the training: “Learning about the budget cycle and our rights under the Constitution was a game-changer for us. We realized that we could not only participate in the county’s decision-making processes but also hold our leaders accountable.”
Armed with this newfound knowledge, Kombo became a vocal advocate within his boda boda group. He encouraged his fellow riders to attend the training sessions and to actively engage in community discussions. Kombo’s leadership and enthusiasm soon inspired others, and the group began to see themselves not just as service providers, but as stakeholders in their community’s development.
One of the key successes that Kombo and his group achieved was advocating for the construction of a boda boda shed. Prior to this, the riders had no designated place to park their motorbikes or shelter from the elements, which affected their daily operations. Through public participation forums, Kombo and his group raised the issue with the local government, highlighting the need for proper infrastructure to support their livelihoods.
“The civic education taught us how to present our case to the county officials,” Kombo explained. “We learned how to gather information, draft proposals, and use our voices effectively. It was amazing to see how our persistence paid off when the shed was finally built.”
In addition to the boda boda shed, Kombo’s group also successfully advocated for the improvement of feeder roads in their area. These roads, often in poor condition, made it difficult for riders to navigate, leading to frequent accidents and increased maintenance costs for their motorbikes. By participating in the county’s budget-making process, the group was able to highlight these issues and secure funding for road repairs.
“Before the training, we didn’t know how to access information or where to go with our complaints,” Kombo noted. “Now, we’re not only informed, but we’re also confident in approaching our leaders and demanding better services.”
Kombo’s story is a powerful example of how civic education can transform individuals and communities. His journey from a disconnected rider to a community advocate has had a ripple effect, empowering others in Timbwani Ward to take an active role in their own development. The success of Kombo and his group demonstrates the importance of public participation in ensuring that local government initiatives are aligned with the needs of the people.
Looking ahead, Kombo remains committed to continuing his advocacy work. He has become a respected leader within his community, known for his dedication to improving the lives of his fellow boda boda riders and the broader Timbwani community. His partnership with Kwacha Afrika and the support he received from the Tuyazungumuze initiative have equipped him with the tools and confidence to keep pushing for positive change.
“We’ve come a long way, but there’s still more to be done,” Kombo said with determination. “I want to see more people getting involved, more voices being heard, and more improvements in our community. Civic education has shown us what’s possible, and I’m excited to see what we can achieve together.”
Kombo Charo’s success story is a testament to the power of education, empowerment, and collective action. Through his efforts, the boda boda community in Likoni Sub-county has not only improved their working conditions but has also set a precedent for active citizen participation in local governance. His journey is a reminder that when people are equipped with the right knowledge and tools, they can become powerful agents of change in their communities.