Zuena Kirema, a multifaceted personality known for her roles as a wife, mother, entrepreneur, and CEO of Zuena Cakes, raised concerns about the overwhelming presence of boda bodas on Kampala’s streets. In a recent online post, she lamented how these motorbikes seemed to have taken over the city, outnumbering pedestrians and bringing along a surge in crime rates, all while flouting traffic laws with reckless abandon.
However, the reactions to her statement were nothing short of scathing. One user pointed out the irony of Zuena’s concern, “The people you’re talking of are our parents trying to strive to earn and cater for our wellbeing… munae, for you, you are well off, so I think it should be none of your concern.”
Adding fuel to the fire, recently bankrupt Masaka tycoon Emmanuel Lwasa released a music video featuring Zuena, promoting boda bodas—an unexpected twist considering Zuena’s past endeavors in the music industry, once hailed by her husband, Bebe Cool, as the “next big thing.” It seems her musical aspirations have taken a detour, or perhaps a crash landing, into the realm of cake baking.
Responding to Zuena’s remarks, Muhairwe Alex highlighted the unfortunate reality that many boda boda riders are graduates, compelled to take up this occupation in a bid to make ends meet—a poignant reminder of Uganda’s job market struggles.
Not to be outdone, another commenter, Desire, took a jab at Zuena’s husband, pointing out that at least boda boda riders are hardworking, unlike a certain someone who allegedly relies on handouts. Shots fired, and the collateral damage is mounting!
Speaking of Zuena’s husband, he’s no stranger to controversy himself, with his unabashed support for the ruling NRM Party and penchant for plastering President Museveni’s image on everything from personal cars to social media posts. Dalton didn’t mince words, accusing Zuena of mocking those who struggle to make ends meet while benefiting from taxpayer-funded largesse.
Bawan brought a pragmatic perspective, reminding everyone that Kampala still grapples with high levels of unemployment and that boda bodas serve as a crucial source of income for many, despite the challenges they pose.
Marion couldn’t resist a sarcastic jab, suggesting that not everyone can switch careers to cake baking or rely on political handouts like Museveni’s largesse.
As the debate rages on, one can’t help but wonder: Are boda bodas truly the scourge of Kampala’s streets, or are they an indispensable lifeline for many struggling to navigate Uganda’s economic landscape?
