A swarm of bees that had perched on a boda boda bike at Kabarnet main bus Terminus brought business to a standstill yesterday the 3rd of January.
The owner had parked and left to pick something from a supermarket when the bees perched.
The incident left the residents with many questions but when the owner returned he just drove away forcing the insects to flee, leaving many people staring open-mouthed.
-sde.co.ke
Explanation and other related stories
It’s a real phenomenon across East Africa—bees sometimes land en masse on boda‑boda motorcycles, creating surreal, buzzing scenes. These pictures from places like Kabarnet and Kampala show riders surrounded by swarms, often parked at busy junctions while commuters and onlookers marvel—or flee—before the rider eventually moves on 🐝.
What’s really going on?
Natural bee behavior: Often it’s a swarm settling temporarily while scouting for a new hive. They may hover or cling until they find their queen or a suitable spot.
Not witchcraft: Locals have speculated mystical causes, but experts say it’s simply nature—though some cultural interpretations describe swarms as omens or blessings.
Rider response: Many boda boda operators simply wait for the swarm to disperse—sometimes for an hour—then ride off as if nothing happened.
Notable incidents:
Kabarnet (2018): A swarm landed on a bike parked near a bus station. After locals panicked, the rider later sped off—some bees still clinging.
Eldoret and Bomet cases: Similar events were reported, with onlookers taking photos and attributing the phenomenon to curses or theft, prompting police attention.
Why it matters:
Cultural curiosity: Swarms challenge local beliefs—are they curses, blessings, or just nature at work?
Urban wildlife interaction: These incidents highlight how wildlife and city life intersect in unexpected ways.
Fun fact: Riders aren’t stung and often ride away unharmed—that’s testament to bee behavior and the calm activity of experienced drivers.
