At the 2019 Devolution Conference in Kirinyaga, Laikipia County showcased an unconventional vehicle developed by self-taught inventor Samuel Gatonye, known as Njogu. The four-wheel tuk-tuk, named "Laikipia BJ 50," was created by modifying a two-wheel bodaboda into a 7-seater with 500kg cargo capacity, priced at Sh450,000.
The project received backing from Laikipia County Government, Numerical Machining Complex, Gear Box Kenya, and academic institutions including Dedan Kimathi University of Technology and Laikipia University. Njogu reported 12 pre-orders for the vehicle, which reaches a top speed of 70km/h.
Social media reactions mixed admiration with criticism. While some highlighted the "Made in Laikipia" initiative, others mocked its design and price. Comments included: "This is fucking hilarious. I thought it was a toy car at first glance," and "That is not made in Kenya! However this is made in Kenya." The $4,500 price tag drew particular scrutiny, with one user stating, "I won’t take it if it’s free."
Local officials emphasized the project as an example of grassroots innovation, citing President Uhuru Kenyatta's goal to increase manufacturing sector contribution to GDP from 8.5% to 15% by 2022. Social media posts from March 2019 included both skepticism and encouragement, with one stating: "The power of self-belief... Laikipia OnTheMove."
