KAMPALA – When Andrew Mujuni lost his job as a security guard, his world turned upside down. After eight years of dedicated service, he was suddenly retrenched without warning. With his only source of income gone, he struggled to provide for his family, and his children were forced to drop out of school due to unpaid fees.
“My wife and I were constantly arguing, and I was bitter all the time. One day, after a serious fight with my wife, a neighbour suggested I try the boda boda business and take a loan from Watu Credit,” Mujuni recalls.
Realizing this could be his lifeline, Mujuni took the leap. He partnered with his wife and became the rider while she managed finances. Soon, the motorbike became a symbol of hope. “My kids are back in school, my wife is happy, and we’re planning our future together,” he says with pride.
For 22-year-old Simon Kalyesubula, the challenge was different but just as daunting. After losing his father, he became the family’s sole provider, ensuring his younger siblings stayed in school. Without financial support, he turned to Watu Uganda for a boda boda loan.
Determined to secure a better future for his siblings, Kalyesubula worked tirelessly and eventually acquired a second motorbike, which increased his income and secured a better future for his family.
It is estimated by the Private Sector Foundation of Uganda (PSFU) that the country has approximately 2million motorcycles, with Kampala alone boasting of about 350,000 bikes.
It is also estimated that approximately 70% of the country’s population use the boda boda for their daily transport needs, making it indispensable.
Frank Mawejje, Chairman of the Uganda Boda Boda Association, said the sector has become a pillar of the country’s economy.
“Boda bodas provide thousands of young people with a stable source of income, contributing significantly to nation-building. We are also seeing more asset financiers helping young entrepreneurs overcome initial investment barriers, which is a huge boost to the industry,” Mawejje explains.
He also acknowledges the government’s role in making the sector more accessible by creating a favourable regulatory environment supporting financiers and riders.
To date, Watu Uganda has financed over 300,000 boda boda riders, enabling them to become self-employed and financially independent. These were previously without access to traditional credit.
Christian Kamukama, Head of Commercial at Watu Uganda, explained: “Our financing model is designed to be flexible, with low initial deposits and manageable installment plans. We focus on business potential rather than traditional credit requirements, making asset financing more accessible—especially for youth and women-led businesses.”
Kamukama said Watu Uganda is driving economic growth, transforming lives, and strengthening communities by empowering entrepreneurs with access to essential assets.
From struggling fathers to determined young men, boda boda loans are proving to be more than just a way to own a motorbike. They are increasingly seen as a tool for empowerment, resilience, and a brighter future.
