EFFECT OF TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION ON THE SUSTAINABILITY OF MOTORCYCLE TAXI BUSINESS IN NAIROBI COUNTY

Abstract

The operations of the motorcycle taxi business in the country are characterized by a very high rate of fatal accidents and deaths resulting from road traffic accidents and litigations hence raising questions on the sustainability of the motorcycle taxi business. Research on the role of technological development in enhancing the sector in Nairobi County is, however, scanty. The objective of the study was to determine the effect of technological development on the sustainability of the motorcycle business in Nairobi County. The study was conducted among motorcycle taxi operators. The descriptive research design was adopted.  A sample of 249 motorcycle taxi operators in Nairobi County was selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Data was collected using questionnaires. Before data collection, piloting, instrument reliability, and validity, a pilot study was conducted. Data were computed for descriptive statistics (frequencies, means, and percentages) and inferential statistics such as Pearson correlations and Regression analysis. The findings were presented using tables, graphs, and charts. The study revealed that technology development did not have a significant influence on Motorcycle Taxi Businesses' sustainability in Kenya. Most motorcycle operators, however, reported that technological innovation had contributed to stiff competition for the motorcycle taxi business which is healthy for business sustainability. Slightly more than 50% of the respondents indicated that technological innovation in the alternative transport sector has enhanced transaction processes between motorcycle taxi operators and their customers. Following this, the study recommended that motorcycle taxi operators should be encouraged to increasingly embrace technology to improve their efficiency and hence business sustainability. The government on the other hand should formulate technological policies that are aimed at improving the sector.