Laikipia County introduced a locally manufactured seven-seater tuk-tuk named BJ-50, sparking mixed reactions on social media. The vehicle, unveiled at the sixth annual devolution conference in Kirinyaga county, drew criticism for its appearance but highlights efforts to advance Kenya's Big Four agenda, particularly manufacturing.
Innovator Samuel Gatonye, based in Nyahururu, developed the tuk-tuk after investing significant time and resources. While some users on Twitter dismissed its design, others acknowledged the effort behind the project. The vehicle, which carries seven passengers compared to standard tuk-tuks' five, is intended for short-distance public transport with a 70 km/h speed limit.
Despite negative feedback, the BJ-50 has secured 26 pre-orders, according to Laikipia County's government website. The county seeks investors to improve the design and scale production. Donald Kipkorir, a lawyer and managing partner at KTK Advocates, praised the innovation on Twitter, calling it a step forward for Laikipia's manufacturing sector.
While critics focus on the tuk-tuk's aesthetics, proponents argue it could contribute to Kenya's economic goals if refined. The project underscores challenges in balancing local innovation with market expectations, as well as the need for financial support to enhance quality and affordability.
