For many Ugandans, boda boda riders are the quickest and most reliable means of transport. Whether rushing an expectant mother to a health center, navigating rugged rural roads to deliver urgent supplies, or simply offering affordable transport, boda bodas have become an indispensable part of daily life in both urban and rural Uganda. Yet, for those who ride them, life is often challenging because a single illness or accident can mean days without income, and for many, unexpected medical expenses can be devastating as well.

In Bweramule Sub-County, Ntoroko District, a group of boda boda riders has taken a bold step to change that reality. In 2016, 26 young riders started a savings initiative that has now blossomed into a thriving financial safety net providing loans to its members. The Bweramule Youth Boda Boda Association has now grown to 76 members (11 women, 65 men) who are redefining how informal workers prepare for medical emergencies through embracing saving for health in their group.

The groups chairperson said that for years, when one of their fellow riders fell ill, the group would struggle to raise funds from among the riders, often with little success. “People wanted to help, but since emergencies are unpredictable, many couldn’t contribute at short notice.” He said.

That all changed in November 2023 when Onesmo, a Village Health Team member (ambassador) trained by Enabel, introduced the concept of saving specifically for health to the group members. Through a series of financial education trainings, members realized that by setting aside small amounts consistently, they could create a dependable emergency fund for medical emergencies. Today, 56 members actively contribute to the health savings fund, and together, they have already saved 2,862,400 UGX for health.  

Unlike traditional loans, the health savings fund in the Village Savings and Loans Associations allows members to borrow interest-free in times of need. “Just last month, 80,000 UGX was borrowed from the fund to cover medical expenses,” says the association’s treasurer. “Now, instead of struggling to mobilize emergency contributions, members can access money quickly and focus on getting better”, he added.

Beyond emergency care, the fund is addressing a major challenge faced by many rural Ugandans, such as drug shortages in government health centres. With their savings, members can now purchase necessary prescribed medications from private pharmacies, ensuring they receive timely treatment.  

While boda boda riding is the primary income source for most of the group members, the association is also empowering its female members, many of whom run small retail businesses, selling agricultural produce and fish. With their growing savings culture, the group has ambitious plans, including opening a motorcycle spare parts and repair business, constructing rental properties for additional income, and providing motorcycles on loan on a rotational basis to members who don’t own one yet. The chairperson said that their goal is to make sure every member owns a motorcycle. “Owning a bike means financial stability, and financial stability means more income and savings”, he proudly said.

The association is also looking ahead by encouraging more community members to join village savings and loan associations (VSLAs), especially those that are actively saving for health. “One day, we hope every group member can save at least 10,000 UGX weekly for their health,” added the chairperson.

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