In the bustling streets of Nairobi, where dreams are often forged in the fires of adversity, Dennis Makoya, a top-rated SafeBoda driver, has carved out a story of resilience, perseverance, and success. Born in Nyanteru, Kisii County,  Dennis grew up as the firstborn in a family of four. With his father disabled, it was his mother who raised him and his siblings, nurturing in him the values of hard work and determination.

A Humble Beginning

Dennis's journey to Nairobi was anything but smooth. After completing his secondary education at St. John's Metembe in 2011, he moved to the city in search of better opportunities. His first job, selling sugarcane in Kabiria, lasted only three months before circumstances forced him to return to Kisii. Disappointed by his abrupt return, Dennis was determined to turn his life around. With a small loan and a lot of grit, he ventured into selling charcoal and later, sugarcane, becoming self-employed in 2013.

Entering the World of Boda Boda

Despite the challenges of his early businesses, the idea of becoming a boda boda rider always lingered in Dennis's mind. After a stint as a caretaker and a brief foray into the mandazi business, Dennis finally bought his first motorbike and began his journey as a boda boda rider. It wasn’t long before he joined SafeBoda, a platform he describes as being different from the rest.

Dennis’s decision to join SafeBoda was motivated by the platform’s commitment to driver welfare. Unlike other platforms, SafeBoda offers its drivers access to office teams, parking spaces, and customer service that genuinely cares. Dennis recalls a time when he was disappointed by a customer, and SafeBoda’s team called him back to ensure everything was okay. This kind of support, he says, makes him feel valued and appreciated as a driver.

The Road to Success

Dennis has faced his fair share of challenges on the road. From customers canceling long-distance trips to dealing with difficult passengers, he has seen it all. However, his focus on customer satisfaction and safety has set him apart as a top rider. He always calls customers to confirm trip details, offers them a helmet, and ensures they feel safe and comfortable throughout the journey. His commitment to safety is evident in his advice to customers: "Don’t be ignorant. If you get the chance to wear a helmet, wear it."

One of Dennis’s most memorable experiences as a rider was an awkward incident with a passenger. After taking a shorter route that reduced the fare, the passenger accused him of theft. Despite the misunderstanding, Dennis handled the situation with the patience and professionalism that he has come to embody.

Looking Ahead

Dennis’s journey with SafeBoda has been a transformative one. Since joining the platform in February 2024, he has enjoyed the freedom of self-employment. He remains motivated by the sense of community within SafeBoda, where drivers are treated with respect and given opportunities to grow.

As he looks to the future, Dennis hopes to continue thriving within SafeBoda, as long as the company maintains its current spirit of fairness and support. He is committed to making a positive impact in his community through his work and hopes to inspire other riders to join SafeBoda, a platform he believes is the best for those who value discipline, cleanliness, and safety.

A Message to SafeBoda

Dennis is passionate about the future of SafeBoda and has a few suggestions to ensure the platform continues to stand out. He emphasizes the importance of listening to drivers on the ground, treating all drivers equally, and providing them with the necessary gear to stay safe on the road. He also advocates for ensuring customers use their real names and phone numbers to foster trust and accountability.

In his spare time, Dennis enjoys reading, jotting down notes in his notebook, and indulging in his favorite kienyeji dishes. His journey from selling sugarcane to becoming a top SafeBoda rider is a testament to his resilience, determination, and the power of never giving up on one’s dreams. Dennis Makoya is not just a boda boda rider; he is an inspiration to many, and his story is one that SafeBoda and the entire Nairobi community can be proud of.

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