In a society where cultural norms often reserve certain professions for men, Ms. Margret Asiimwe has emerged as a trailblazer, defying stereotypes and excelling in the boda boda (motorcycle taxi) business. Over the past two decades, the 43-year-old mother of three has navigated the streets of Fort Portal City on her motorcycle, challenging societal expectations. Before entering the boda boda industry, Ms. Asiimwe sought employment in Kampala City after dropping out of school in 2001. Her initial job as a tout in the Old Taxi Park, earning a meager commission of Shs500 per customer, was financially unsustainable.
Realizing the limited income from her job, she decided to switch paths and learn how to ride a motorcycle. By dedicating her evenings to learning, she gradually mastered the skill. Initially, she rented a motorcycle, paying Shs10,000 per day to a friend, and on her first day as a boda boda rider, she earned Shs15,000. As her business grew, she soon made up to Shs50,000 on peak days, sparking her entrepreneurial journey.
In addition to her boda boda work, Ms. Asiimwe joined a security company, balancing night shifts with daytime riding. After relocating to Mbarara, where she was the only female rider, she faced the challenge of gaining customers’ trust. But her determination led to success, and she returned to Fort Portal in 2010, where she expanded her business by acquiring a second motorcycle. She continued to thrive, and by 2012, her daily earnings reached between Shs30,000 and Shs50,000.
Over the years, Ms. Asiimwe invested in real estate, purchased land, and ventured into bricklaying. She has also mentored other women, helping them gain independence through the boda boda business. In 2019, she established a women’s association and was even promised financial support by President Museveni during the Rwenzori Investment Expo in 2020.
Ms. Asiimwe’s success has inspired others, like Ms. Annet Kyarisiima in Kabale, who transitioned from teaching to boda boda riding after struggling with low wages. Despite initial skepticism and financial challenges, Ms. Kyarisiima earned the trust of passengers and now enjoys a stable income.
In Jinja City, Ms. Annet Matama, after facing harassment in office jobs, turned to the boda boda industry, founding the Jinja City Ladies Boda Boda Riders Association (LABRA), which has grown to 100 members. Her journey has been marked by resilience, despite facing security challenges and financial setbacks. Like Ms. Asiimwe, Matama’s achievements have paved the way for more women to join the industry.
Other women, such as Ms. Rukia Nakagolo and Ms. Jane Nangobi, have also entered the boda boda business as a means to provide for their families. Despite facing criticism and challenges, they continue to thrive and contribute to the growing number of female riders in the industry.
These stories reflect the transformative power of resilience, determination, and financial independence as these women continue to break barriers in Uganda’s boda boda business, inspiring future generations of women to follow in their footsteps.
