A first-year female student at Tharaka University has turned to the boda boda business in Mogotio Constituency, Baringo County, to raise money for her university education amid rising higher education costs.
Mercy Kangogo, 22, who is pursuing a Bachelor of Education degree in Mathematics and Physical Education, said she ventured into the transport business to ease the financial burden on her parents.
Speaking at Chepngetuny along the Noiwet–Lombogishu–Muserechi road in Mogotio Constituency, Kangogo; the firstborn in a family of six — said her parents are struggling to educate all their children, with the youngest currently in Grade 3.
“My decision to venture into the boda boda business was informed by the challenges we face at home. I use the proceeds to supplement what my family can provide,” she said.
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She noted that although she receives a Ksh8,000 bursary from the NG-CDF, the amount is insufficient to cover tuition, accommodation, and upkeep expenses at the university. On good days, she earns up to Ksh900 from the business.
Kangogo encouraged students facing financial hardship to explore income-generating opportunities instead of dropping out of school.
Her passion for the boda boda business began while she was in Form Two at Sagasagik Day Secondary School. During school holidays, she approached a relative who owned a motorcycle and offered to operate it in exchange for a share of the earnings, which she used to clear school fee arrears.
After scoring a B grade in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations and securing admission to Tharaka Nithi University, the same relative gifted her the motorcycle.
Her story reflects a growing trend among university students seeking alternative sources of income amid delayed HELB disbursements and the rising cost of living.
By William Sawe
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