National Social Security Fund | NSSF Partners with Boda Boda Union, Targets UGX 365 Billion from 1 million riders

NSSF Partners with Boda Boda Union, Targets UGX 365 Billion from 1 million riders

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Kampala; - Wednesday, October 15, 2025:  The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) Uganda has today launched a strategic partnership with the United Boda Boda Riders Cooperative Union (UBRCU), targeting to mobilise up to UGX365 billion annually from one million boda boda riders, according to figures from the Union.

The partnership, unveiled at a launch event in Kampala, is expected to enable more than one million boda boda riders across Uganda to save for their future through the Fund’s voluntary saving product, Smartlife Flexi.

Speaking at the launch, Patrick Ayota, NSSF Managing Director, said that the partnership presents an opportunity to extend social security coverage and long-term financial stability for Uganda’s informal workers.

“Uganda’s labour force is estimated at over 20 million people, yet only 2.4 million are currently contributing to the Fund — less than 12% coverage,” Ayota noted. “As we embark on our new 10-year strategic direction, the Fund’s goal is to increase national social security coverage to 50% of the workforce by 2035, representing 15 million active members. The boda-boda sector, with over 1.2million riders makes it a high-impact entry point.”

He revealed that the Fund has already registered success in reaching informal sector workers, including 20,000 farmers organised in groups across Northern Uganda, and now seeks to replicate the model among boda boda riders.

According to Ms Peninah Kabagambe, NSSF Chief Enterprise and Growth Officer, the Fund will onboard the boda boda riders onto Smartlife Flexi through targeted financial literacy drives.

Smartlife Flexi, the Fund’s voluntary saving product launched 11 months ago has registered 44,698 members, contributing a total of UGX 36.4 billion.

Mr Fred Senoga, the Business Product Advisor United Boda Boda Riders Cooperative Union, welcomed the partnership, describing it as a breakthrough in improving the welfare and financial resilience of riders who often face daily income uncertainty.

“For years, riders have struggled to save consistently despite earning daily income. We are targeting to recruit 1million boda boda riders saving UGX1000 daily,” Mr Senoga said.

The boda boda industry is estimated to be the second-largest employer in Uganda after agriculture, with 85% of riders under the age of 35.