Bolt Kenya increases fares by 10% amidst driver concerns, following Uber’s lead. This decision follows a week-long protest from drivers demanding better compensation.
The move, the company claims, reflects its commitment to addressing the concerns of its driver-partners, who are essential to Bolt’s operations, especially in light of the rising cost of living.
Linda Ndungu, Bolt’s General Manager for Rides, emphasised the importance of this fare adjustment, stating, “This fare adjustment is not just a price change but also a step towards acknowledging the value our drivers bring to the platform every day.
“We believe that this move will help our drivers earn a fair wage, which in turn will allow them to continue providing the reliable and safe transportation our riders depend on.”
The fare increase will see all rides booked on the Bolt platform go up by 10% forthwith. For instance, the base fare for the Economy category, which used to be KSh 200 will now be KSh 220.
The ride-hailing company expects this development to positively impact driver earnings, ultimately incentivising drivers to stay on the app and maintain high service standards.
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It notes that it consulted with its driver community and industry regulators to gain insight into their challenges, especially given the rising operational costs.
The feedback prompted Bolt to adjust the fare
The feedback prompted the company to implement a fare adjustment to give its drivers access to sustainable earnings as they continue to provide safe, reliable, and high-quality service to riders throughout Kenya.
Bolt’s fare hike comes shortly after Uber Kenya made a similar move, increasing fares across all ride categories, including the minimum price and per-kilometer rate.
Similarly, Uber’s decision was also in response to mounting frustrations among its drivers, who had begun setting their prices and refusing service to passengers unwilling to pay higher rates.
The recent protests in July 2024 saw Kenyan ride-hailing drivers stage a five-day strike, demanding better pay and the removal of value-added taxes. Their demands included increasing the minimum fare from KSh 180 to KSh 300, a figure they believed would adequately cover their operational costs.
Bolt promises to continue monitoring the economic situation in Kenya and engaging with stakeholders to effect any necessary price review in the future.
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