Commuter Welfare Association Calls for Safer, More Responsible Public Transport

Commuter Welfare Association Calls for Safer, More Responsible Public Transport

Sami Kemboi, patron of the County Commuter Welfare Association (KOKOWA), has called for greater protection of public transport users, saying commuters deserve to travel safely and with dignity as they go about their daily activities.

Kemboi said the association was formed to champion the rights of commuters and help restore sanity in the public transport sector, which he noted continues to face challenges including assaults, disputes over fares and other incidents that put passengers at risk.

“We take interest in everyone who uses public transport. Our role is to champion their rights and restore sanity in public transport,” Kemboi said.

He said the association works closely with transport authorities and organisations advocating for women's rights to address challenges affecting commuters.

Kemboi added that KOKOWA conducts sensitisation programmes targeting drivers and conductors, encouraging them to improve their conduct and maintain peaceful relations with passengers.

He said the relationship between commuters and public transport operators is mutually dependent, with both sides relying on each other for their livelihoods and daily mobility.

Kemboi spoke during the Digital Fit Awards, where he was honoured for his contribution to championing commuter rights.

He said the recognition had also encouraged the association to accelerate plans to digitise its operations and make it easier for commuters to report incidents and seek assistance.

According to Kemboi, the association plans to introduce digital registration and an SMS-based reporting system that will allow commuters to raise concerns from different parts of the country.

“Once there is an issue or challenge that a commuter is facing, they will be able to send an SMS. We will pick up the commuter's number and reference it in our system, then coordinate with the relevant authorities to ensure their rights are protected,” he said.

Kemboi said the proposed system would enable the association to respond swiftly to complaints and work with security agencies and transport authorities where necessary.

He maintained that the ultimate goal is to ensure that every commuter can use public transport without fear, while promoting better relations between passengers and transport operators.