Kenya’s social media scene has once again been rocked by a scandal — this time involving popular businessman and influencer Jimal “Roho Safi” Marlow, who has been accused of running a KSh 24 million electric motorbike scam under his company, Huduma Credit.
Thousands of boda boda riders claim they were conned after paying deposits for promised electric bikes that were never delivered. The uproar has since sparked nationwide outrage, online debates, and official calls for accountability. But what’s the real story behind the alleged Huduma Credit Scam?
How It All Started: The Huduma Credit Promise
According to several reports from local media outlets such as TUKO.co.ke and K24 Digital, the saga began when Huduma Credit, a company owned by Jimal Roho Safi, launched what seemed like a promising initiative.
The company invited boda boda operators across Kenya to pay a KSh 9,500 deposit for brand-new electric motorbikes — a move touted as part of Kenya’s clean energy revolution.
For many riders, the deal looked genuine. Jimal, known for his flashy lifestyle and business ventures, seemed trustworthy. Hundreds joined in quickly, seeing the offer as an opportunity to own eco-friendly motorbikes and cut fuel costs.
The Allegations: Over KSh 24 Million Collected
Within a few months, more than 2,500 boda boda riders had paid the deposit — totaling an estimated KSh 24 million.
However, the problems started soon after. Riders claimed that months passed without delivery of the promised bikes. Communication became sporadic, excuses began to pile up, and frustration spread rapidly.
Online groups emerged where angry clients shared screenshots, receipts, and complaints accusing Jimal of running a massive “Ponzi-style” deposit scheme disguised as a green transport project.
Jimal Roho Safi Responds to the Accusations
In response to the growing public outcry, Jimal Roho Safi broke his silence. Speaking to media outlets, he denied the scam allegations, saying the project had only faced logistical challenges — not fraud.
“There are delays in manufacturing, customs clearance, and registration of the motorbikes,” he stated.
“We are not running away from anyone. Those who want refunds can get them, and those who wish to wait will receive their bikes.”
He further assured customers that his team was working to speed up delivery and that no one would lose their money.
Unanswered Questions and Red Flags
Despite the reassurances, several questions remain unanswered:
- Licensing and Registration: Did Huduma Credit have the required licenses to run a micro-financing or vehicle importation business?
- Refunds: Have refunds actually been processed for those demanding them?
- Transparency: Were customers provided with written contracts or delivery timelines?
- Government Oversight: Have authorities — such as the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) or Consumer Protection Agency — launched official investigations?
Until now, there have been no official confirmations of investigations or refunds, leaving affected riders in limbo.
What This Means for Boda Boda Operators
The alleged Huduma Credit scam highlights a broader issue — the vulnerability of small-scale operators eager for affordable business solutions.
Many boda boda riders are already burdened by high fuel prices and low earnings, making them easy targets for “too-good-to-be-true” investment offers.
Experts are now urging riders to verify business legitimacy, ensure written agreements, and avoid paying deposits for undelivered goods unless through verified and regulated companies.
Is Jimal a Victim or the Mastermind?
While public opinion is largely against Jimal, there remains a section of supporters who believe he might be a victim of bad logistics and poor planning, rather than a deliberate fraudster.
If his claims are true, then the delays could indeed stem from importation hurdles, shipping delays, or regulatory bottlenecks — common issues for startups dealing in electric vehicles.
However, with millions of shillings at stake, only time — and transparency — will tell whether this is a genuine business setback or a calculated con.
Conclusion
The alleged KSh 24 million Huduma Credit scam involving Jimal Roho Safi has sent shockwaves through Kenya’s entrepreneurial space. It serves as a cautionary tale for both investors and entrepreneurs about the dangers of unchecked hype, lack of accountability, and poor transparency in online business ventures.
As investigations continue and affected riders demand justice, one thing is certain: Kenyans are watching closely.
Will Jimal Roho Safi clear his name — or will the Huduma Credit scandal become another chapter in Kenya’s growing list of financial frauds?
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