* Laikipia County launched motorcycle ambulances to reach remote areas for maternal and child emergencies.
* Many Kenyans see it as undignified and unsafe for vulnerable patients like pregnant women.
On February 4, 2026, Laikipia County Government unveiled a pilot program deploying motorcycle ambulances to improve emergency access in rugged, hard-to-reach regions like Laikipia North and parts of Laikipia West.
The initiative targets long distances and poor road networks that often delay conventional ambulances, putting expectant mothers and newborns at risk during labor or medical crises.
Five Eezer-branded motorcycles, equipped with patient trailers and medical supplies, were rolled out in partnership with the Eezer Initiative, a Swedish-backed program dedicated to rural healthcare mobility across Africa.
Images of the bikes quickly spread on social media platforms like X, igniting widespread debate within hours of the launch.
Laikipia County Executive for Health Albert Taiti defended the move during the event at Nanyuki County Referral Hospital.
“Today, we are excited to be launching the pilot for motorcycle ambulances in collaboration with the Eezer Initiative. This comes at a time when the county is working hard to improve maternal and child health outcomes,” he said.
County officials described the motorcycles as a life-saving, innovative solution rather than a compromise on dignity or safety standards.
The pilot aims to reduce maternal and neonatal deaths by enabling faster responses where traditional vehicles struggle on rough terrain.
Yet public reaction across Kenya has been overwhelmingly critical as thousands of online comments expressed sarcasm, disbelief, and fury, with many questioning the safety and humanity of transporting pregnant women or critically ill patients on motorcycles, even with trailers.
Critics argued it reflects misplaced priorities in a nation still battling fundamental healthcare shortages.
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