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Boda boda riders: The street gossipers of Dar es Salaam
What you need to know:
- Whether the journey is short or long, these riders eagerly share the latest gossip. From relationships and job changes to hospital visits, they act as walking radios, delivering news unsolicited. However, their penchant for sharing information has led to strained relationships, conflicts, and even social discord.
Dar es Salaam. In the bustling boda boda (motorcycle) hubs around Dar es Salaam, activity never ceases. Some passengers carefully choose their riders, while others hop onto any available motorcycle. Among these riders, certain figures stand out—not just for their driving skills, but for their humour and sociability, creating a lively atmosphere at the stops.
Whether the journey is short or long, these riders eagerly share the latest gossip. From relationships and job changes to hospital visits, they act as walking radios, delivering news unsolicited. However, their penchant for sharing information has led to strained relationships, conflicts, and even social discord.
Mariam Chuwa, a resident of Kigamboni, recounts how boda boda gossip caused a rift in her family.
"Boda bodas are the reason I fell out with my family," she says. "My brother, a boda boda rider, used to take me to entertainment spots. My father, a strict man, disapproved. One day, my brother told my sister about our outings, and she informed my father. This sparked a huge argument, and I haven’t spoken to them since."
Rehema Ally, a food vendor at Tabata Kimanga, confirms that some riders have a tendency for gossip.
"They stop by my restaurant and chat. One might mention, 'I took that woman to a guest house in Buguruni.' People should avoid sharing secrets with boda boda riders; they can embarrass you," she says.
The impact on relationships
Odemba Sozi, a resident of Tegeta, recalls a boda boda rider’s role in his sister’s marital breakdown.
"My sister frequently used a boda boda to meet a male friend. One day, the rider informed her husband. He set a trap, caught her, and the marriage ended immediately," he explains.
Juma Mohamed from Mbagala Mbande urges boda boda riders to avoid making assumptions.
"Not everyone going to a guest house is being unfaithful. Some go there for rest due to noisy homes, but riders often jump to conclusions and spread false information," he says.
Boda boda riders respond
Samsom John (not his real name), a boda boda rider at Tabata Relini, defends his profession.
"Most of us keep secrets. I’ve saved relationships by staying quiet. Sometimes, I take a woman to a location, and later, her husband calls me to take him there. I discreetly warn her and save the relationship," he claims.
Said Mohamed (not his real name), a taxi driver at Ubungo Maziwa, admits gossip is a common pastime.
"We sometimes run out of things to discuss, so we talk about our clients. But it’s all in good fun and helps pass the time," he says, recalling an incident where a driver was slapped for spreading a rumour.
Vincent Musa (not his real name), a boda boda rider in Kariakoo, insists some riders remain professional.
"We know many secrets but don’t share them. Our job is to transport passengers, not gossip," he asserts.
Marius Alphonce, Chairman of Kimanga Darajani Ward, recalls mediating a conflict between a passenger and a boda boda rider.
"A woman approached me after a rider threatened to disclose her secrets. He claimed to know too much about her, and I had to intervene," he says.
Psychological insights
President of the Tanzania Psychological Association (Tapa), Dr Magolanga Shagembe, attributes the gossiping habit to environmental influences.
"Some people cannot keep secrets. It’s in their nature. Some boda boda riders are discreet, but others gossip to feel important or in control of conversations," he explains.
Psychologist Yisambi Mbuwi adds that for some, gossiping is a coping mechanism.
"Some people simply cannot hold things in. Gossiping helps them relieve emotions, even if it means betraying trust," he says.
