The fast and the victorious: Mobility, motorcyclists and political mobilisation in Uganda

Abstract

As in other African countries, activists in Uganda play an important role during political campaigns. Monetary handouts, called ‘transport refund’, often facilitate their participation. Although these handouts often cover more than just the costs of transportation, the label indicates that mobility is seen as an important financial item for campaign activists. Despite this, little has been published about the role that mobility plays in the processes of political mobilisation in Africa. This article therefore examines mobility as an important yet neglected aspect of political mobilisation by evaluating the role of motorcycle taxi riders during elections in Uganda. Usually referred to as Boda-Bodas, they are essential short-distance transport providers in the country. Beyond that, being Boda-Boda has become a way of survival, a form of social organisation, and a promise that every youth can make a living if he dares to face the dangers of the country's accident-prone roads. Politicians have since discovered the potential of these bold young men and recruit them en masse ahead of elections. Based on fieldwork conducted between 2018 and 2022, this paper examines the unique mobilities inherent in Boda-Bodas. It finds that characteristic mobilities enable their movements as transport providers and argues that these mobilities also enhance political rallies. Boda-Boda motorcycle riders have therefore become a crucial activist group during political campaigns in Uganda.