Male Engagement
Redefining Gender Norms— Together on the Road to Women’s Equality
How do men in rural communities respond to women driving?
Boda Girls challenge gender norms by putting women in the driver’s seat—literally. These uniformed women, partnered with a trusted community hospital and offering free rides to wives, mothers, and daughters, are commanding more and more respect and acceptance. Many – though not all – men in the local communities have come to recognize what studies have also consistently shown, namely that empowering women strengthens families, communities, and society as a whole. Evidence of male acceptance can be found in the fact that about 40% of Boda Girls' paying passengers are men.
How do male taxi drivers feel about the Boda Girls?
Some male drivers initially feel unhappy about the perceived competition, but most quickly learn that collaboration has its benefits. As one male boda leader remarked, Boda Girls are safe drivers, use helmets and don’t drink. “And now that clients have the option to choose women drivers, many men are stepping up — improving safety, customer service, and respect for women.” Evidence of men’s acceptance can be seen at taxi stands: Kenyan law requires all drivers to register with a taxi stand, and some stands now compete to have a Boda Girl join their ranks. Indeed, several stands have elected Boda Girls as their leaders. Also, at new implementation partner sites, we’ve seen an interesting shift — male drivers are advocating for their wives to be accepted into Boda Girls.
Do you have programs for male drivers?
Absolutely. Creating safer, more equitable communities means involving everyone — especially men. We survey male drivers, understand their needs, and invite them into the movement. They attend our events where they are acknowledged and thanked by Boda Girls and local police leadership .
Through the Boda Girls Male Allies Program, male drivers participate in training to become more knowledgeable and supportive of women in their lives – not only with respect to motorcycle driving, but also important day-to-day issues, such as menstruation and gender-based violence (GBV). They are also trained as First Responders, and we help them build partnerships with police and community members. These men join a WhatsApp network to support women on the road. They can register their name, address, and licenses, so we can track them and give them a Boda Girls Male Ally sticker to put on their bike to show potential female passengers that they have been through the training.
I’m not a driver — how can I get involved as an Ally?
If you want to join us in increasing women’s equity, we welcome allies of all genders. Our Allies understand their role is to support women’s voices and leadership and serve as role models to men and women in their community.
You can get involved by:
Starting or joining a Boda Girls Chapter to raise awareness and fundraise in your community.
Inviting us to speak with you at your workplace, worship center, or social gathering.
Sharing your expertise — if you have a special skill you think we might use or want to share an idea with us to strengthen the movement, please let us know Join us as a volunteer.