Ride to Live Africa Safety Initiative
Category: Footwear
Competitions: Africa
While there is no precise continent-wide daily statistic for deaths caused specifically by boda bodas (motorcycle taxis) across Africa, they remain a leading cause of trauma and road fatalities. In Uganda alone, approximately 10 people lose their lives daily in road accidents, with motorcycle taxis involved in a significant proportion of these deaths. Young, energetic youths, both educated and uneducated, with young, vulnerable families form the majority of these tragic victims, resulting in profound social and economic loss to families and communities. The Ride to Live Africa Safety Initiative seeks to reduce road accident fatalities across Africa by designing and producing high-quality protective leather safety shoes and helmets tailored specifically for motorcycle riders. Inspired by the tragic and fatal loss of my beloved elder brother, Mbangira Yosam, in September 2024 in a motorcycle Accident due to riding without appropriate Riding Gear like many other Riders on the road, the initiative focuses on developing durable, locally manufactured protective gear (Safety Riding Boot) that enhances rider safety, comfort, and accessibility. By combining innovation, skilled craftsmanship, and locally sourced materials such as Waterproof Leather and Rubber Soles, among others, the project aims to provide affordable yet effective protection for riders who depend on boda boda—the fastest, most accessible, and most widely used mode of transport for millions. Beyond product development, the initiative promotes road safety awareness, strengthens local manufacturing, and creates sustainable jobs—transforming personal loss into a mission to save lives and build safer, more resilient communities across Africa.
