Boda-Boda "Ride to Freedom"
Empowering motorcycle riders with Bitcoin microloans for licensing, insurance, and financial independence
Program Overview
Boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) riders are essential to Nairobi's transportation ecosystem, but many operate without proper licensing, insurance, or safety equipment due to financial barriers. The "Ride to Freedom" program provides Bitcoin-based microloans to help riders formalize their businesses and achieve financial security.
By offering flexible, low-interest loans repayable in Bitcoin, we help riders obtain licenses, insurance, safety gear, and motorcycle improvements. This creates legal compliance, reduces risks, and opens pathways to motorcycle ownership and business expansion.
Loan Coverage
Licenses & Permits
Coverage for motorcycle operator licenses, commercial permits (PSV), and business registration fees required for legal operation.
Insurance & Inspection
Comprehensive or third-party insurance, annual motorcycle inspection fees, and NTSA compliance requirements.
Safety Equipment
Quality helmets (rider and passenger), reflective jackets, motorcycle locks, and protective riding gear.
Motorcycle Improvements
Repairs, maintenance, upgrades, or down payments toward motorcycle ownership for riders currently renting.
Application Process
Application & Verification
Riders submit applications with basic information: current license status, motorcycle details, income estimates, and loan purpose. We verify identity and conduct brief interviews.
Bitcoin Education
All participants receive Bitcoin training: wallet setup, sending/receiving payments, security best practices, and using Lightning Network for instant transactions.
Loan Approval & Disbursement
Approved applicants receive Bitcoin loans directly to their wallets. Funds can be immediately converted to Kenyan shillings via M-Pesa for payment of fees, or used at Bitcoin-accepting merchants.
Flexible Repayment
Riders repay loans over 3-12 months in small, flexible installments via Bitcoin. Payments adapt to income fluctuations—busy weeks allow larger payments, slow weeks allow smaller ones.
Graduation & Growth
Upon successful repayment, riders "graduate" with improved credit history, eligibility for larger loans (e.g., motorcycle purchase), and ongoing financial mentorship.
Loan Terms
Significantly lower than traditional microfinance
Flexible based on loan size and rider preference
Trust-based lending with community vouching
Why This Matters
Legal Protection
Licensed and insured riders avoid police harassment, fines, and bribes. Operating legally provides peace of mind and protects against liability in accidents.
Increased Earnings
Legal riders can access premium customers, work with ride-hailing apps, and charge higher rates. Many see income increase by 20-40% after compliance.
Path to Ownership
Many riders start by renting motorcycles. Our loans help them save toward ownership, breaking the cycle of daily rental payments and building asset wealth.
Financial Inclusion
Bitcoin loans bypass traditional banking barriers. Riders build credit history through successful repayment, accessing future financial opportunities.
Program Goals
40 Riders by 2026
Expand from 10 to 40 active loan recipients, helping dozens of riders formalize and grow their businesses.
Motorcycle Ownership Program
Launch dedicated motorcycle purchase loans, helping 10+ riders transition from renting to owning their vehicles.
Ride-Hailing Integration
Partner with Uber, Bolt, and local platforms to ensure licensed riders access premium earning opportunities.
Savings & Investment Education
Provide financial literacy training on Bitcoin savings, investment strategies, and long-term wealth building.
Empower Boda-Boda Riders
Your donation provides life-changing microloans to motorcycle riders, helping them achieve legal compliance, financial security, and pathways to motorcycle ownership.