Ugandan-German personality Melissa Mulungi has made it crystal clear—she has never ridden a boda boda, and she never plans to.
Despite boda bodas being one of the most popular and convenient modes of transport in Uganda, Mulungi has stood her ground, refusing to use them no matter the circumstances.
But why is she so adamant about avoiding them? Let’s dive into her reasons.
Melissa Mulungi’s Unwavering Stance on Boda Bodas
In a recent conversation, Melissa Mulungi spoke about how boda bodas—motorcycle taxis that zip through traffic—are a no-go for her.
Even in urgent situations where others rely on boda bodas to avoid delays, she still chooses to stay behind.
“It’s funny because there have been times, especially back in the day when I was working closely with my big brother Eddy (Kenzo), when he would have shows, interviews, and stuff like that. There were times we would be stuck in traffic, and they would say, ‘Eddy has to be on set in the next 10 to 15 minutes.’ I’d be like, ‘Guys, God bless you, you can go on the boda, and I’ll stay in this traffic,’” she shared.
Her statement confirms that no amount of time pressure or urgency will ever convince her to get on a boda boda.
Why Has Melissa Mulungi Never Taken a Boda Boda?
Boda bodas are often favored for their speed, especially in heavily congested cities like Kampala, where cars can remain stuck in traffic for hours.
However, Melissa Mulungi prefers to drive herself, saying that waiting in traffic is better than the risks that come with boda bodas.
Here are a few possible reasons behind her decision:
1. Safety Concerns
Boda bodas are notoriously risky due to:
- Frequent accidents – They contribute to a high percentage of road traffic injuries in Uganda.
- Lack of protective gear – Most boda boda passengers do not wear helmets, increasing the risk of severe injuries.
- Reckless driving – Some boda boda riders are known for weaving through traffic dangerously.
For someone like Melissa, who values her safety and peace of mind, it makes sense that she avoids the potential dangers that come with riding a boda boda.
2. Personal Preference and Comfort
Mulungi believes that staying in traffic inside a car is much more comfortable than riding at high speed on a motorcycle through congested streets.
Even when others rush ahead on bodas, she remains firm in her choice to stay behind and drive herself instead.
3. Control Over Her Own Travel Time
While boda bodas help cut through traffic quickly, they also put passengers at the mercy of the rider.
Mulungi prefers to drive herself, meaning she has full control over:
- Her route
- Her speed
- Her comfort and safety
Rather than leaving her fate in the hands of a boda boda rider, she chooses to navigate traffic on her own terms.
The Role of Boda Bodas in Ugandan Transport
For many Ugandans, boda bodas are an essential part of daily life.
Here’s why they are so popular:
✅ They move faster than cars stuck in traffic.
✅ They are affordable compared to taxis or private vehicles.
✅ They can easily navigate narrow streets in busy areas.
✅ They provide employment opportunities to thousands of Ugandan youth.
Despite their advantages, boda bodas also have a controversial reputation due to reckless riders, frequent accidents, and lack of regulation.
While some, like Melissa Mulungi, choose to completely avoid them, others rely on them daily to get around quickly.
Melissa’s Experience Working with Eddy Kenzo
During her time working with award-winning Ugandan musician Eddy Kenzo, Melissa encountered many situations where rushing to events was necessary.
She recalls times when:
- They were stuck in traffic and needed to reach a location quickly.
- Team members suggested boda bodas as the fastest way to get to the venue.
- She chose to stay behind, allowing others to take bodas while she waited.
Even under tight schedules, she always remained committed to her decision—no boda bodas!
Melissa Mulungi’s Lifestyle and Public Influence
Melissa Mulungi is not just known for her bold decisions but also for her strong personality and lifestyle choices.
As an influencer with both Ugandan and German roots, she shares insights into:
- Cultural differences between Uganda and Germany.
- Her experiences in the entertainment industry.
- Personal values that guide her decisions, such as never using boda bodas.
Her stance on boda bodas vs. cars might spark conversations about transport choices, especially for those who prioritize safety and comfort over convenience.
Conclusion: Sticking to Personal Boundaries
Melissa Mulungi’s story is a great example of standing firm in personal decisions.
Even in high-pressure situations, where others opt for the fastest mode of transport, she remains unmoved, sticking to what she feels is best for her.
🚦 Would you choose to avoid boda bodas like Melissa, or do you rely on them for daily travel?
💬 Share your thoughts in the comments below!
