The Mombasa County Government has directed all tuk-tuk operators to join registered transport SACCOs by January 1, warning that enforcement will begin immediately after the deadline.
Transport, Infrastructure and Governance CEC Dan Manyala said the move is part of a broader plan to enhance safety, accountability and order in the county’s public transport system.
“Mombasa is a tourism city. We must have a transport system that is organised, traceable and safe,” he said.
Manyala noted that the county is finalising regulations to guide SACCO operations for both tuk-tuk and boda boda operators. So far, eight SACCOs have been approved, with additional groups allowed to register as long as they meet the minimum requirement of at least 100 tuk-tuks per SACCO.
Once the new rules take effect on January 1, SACCOs will serve as the only recognised operational channel for tuk-tuk services.
The system will also introduce unique identification numbers and colour-coded stickers to help authorities determine where each vehicle is registered and easily trace it in case of incidents.
Finance CEC Evans Oanda said the directive will also help boost county revenue by bringing on board thousands of operators who currently do not pay statutory fees.
“Out of about 17,000 tuk-tuks, only 4,000 are contributing revenue. This reform will bring everyone into the system fairly,” he said.
Deputy County Commissioner Kalume Kashuru said national government agencies will work with the county to ensure strict enforcement.
“We will ensure compliance through cooperation with county and security agencies,” he said.
Salama SACCO chairman Anwar Bujra welcomed the directive and urged operators to comply, while appealing for national government support.
“The President had promised empowerment once operators organised themselves. We have done our part, and now we ask for support,” he said.
During the launch, operators were also encouraged to partner with authorities to improve safety and professionalism across the industry.
Tuk-tuks, though popular for short trips, navigating narrow streets and serving tourists, are not the dominant mode of transport in Mombasa.
Matatus remain the primary choice for most residents, while tuk-tuks offer a convenient option for local errands, sightseeing and deliveries, particularly in areas such as Mombasa Old Town.
