In a world where cultural norms often dictate that certain professions are reserved for men, women like Ms. Margret Asiimwe are defying societal expectations to establish themselves in the boda boda business. For the past 20 years, this 43-year-old mother of three has proven that women can excel in industries traditionally dominated by men. She has spent the past two decades navigating the bustling streets of Fort Portal City on her motorcycle, carving out a space for herself in a male-dominated profession.

Before embarking on her boda boda journey, Ms. Asiimwe had worked various jobs, including as a tout in Kampala City after dropping out of school in 2001. Despite the hustle, she struggled with meager earnings, making only Shs5,000 to Shs10,000 a day. Driven by the need for better financial stability, she decided to join the motorcycle business. However, entering this male-dominated field was no easy feat.

To master motorcycle riding, she dedicated her evenings to learning. After her daytime job, she bought fuel for Shs5,000 and rented a motorcycle for Shs10,000 per day. On her first day as a rider, she earned Shs15,000. By the end of the week, her customer base grew, and soon, she was earning up to Shs50,000 on a busy day. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to join a security company to supplement her income, working night shifts while riding during the day. Later, the company transferred her to Mbarara District, where she faced challenges as the only female rider in the area.

Ms. Asiimwe made a strategic decision to part ways with the security company, and in 2010, after spending time in Mbarara, she returned to Fort Portal, where her return was met with disbelief. She used Shs1 million to acquire a second motorcycle, and in 2012, she paid Shs500,000 in stage fees to secure a prime spot on the Fort Portal-Kasese road. Her income skyrocketed, with daily earnings ranging from Shs30,000 to Shs50,000.

In addition to her work as a boda boda rider, Ms. Asiimwe ventured into bricklaying, producing and selling 10,000 bricks for Shs1.3 million, using part of the proceeds to purchase another motorcycle. As her success grew, she mentored 25 other women in Kabarole District and established a women’s association, for which she serves as chairperson. Her efforts gained national attention, with President Museveni even sitting on her motorcycle during the 2020 Rwenzori Investment Expo and promising financial support.

However, despite receiving some financial backing through the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme, the group continues to face challenges such as loan repayment issues and accusations of corruption from local officials.

Ms. Asiimwe’s journey inspired others, like Ms. Teddy Kabatoro Akiiki, who has been riding boda bodas for over 10 years. Together with Ms. Asiimwe, Ms. Kabatoro is working to bring attention to the plight of female riders, particularly after a promise of Shs10 million from the President remained unfulfilled.

Other women across Uganda are following in Ms. Asiimwe’s footsteps, including Ms. Annet Kyarisiima from Kabale District. After leaving her teaching job due to low pay, Ms. Kyarisiima turned to boda boda riding and has earned the trust of customers over time. Despite initial resistance, she now earns between Shs600,000 and Shs1 million a month, with an increasing number of parents relying on her for school transport.

In Jinja City, Ms. Annet Matama, after facing sexual harassment in office jobs, switched to boda boda riding and founded the Jinja City Ladies Boda Boda Riders Association, which now has 100 members. Ms. Matama has also faced challenges, including the theft of her motorcycles, but remains determined to expand her operations, with plans for a courier service.

Similarly, Ms. Rukia Nakagolo from Jinja and Ms. Jane Nangobi from Kabale have turned to boda boda riding to support their families after personal hardships. These women have not only gained financial independence but have also broken barriers in their communities, facing challenges like harassment and insecurity along the way.

As these women continue to pave the way for others in the boda boda business, they demonstrate that gender norms can be challenged and that success is achievable through hard work, determination, and the willingness to defy societal expectations.