Bolt Awards Top 10 Drivers, Couriers In Kenya Over KSh 2.9m In Seed Funding

• Bolt Kenya launched the Accelerator Programme in April 2024, which saw over 120 drivers and couriers selected for training
• The programme, which ended in September 2024, saw the digital taxi company fete the top ten participants
• The drivers who shared promising ideas with a panel of judges were awarded over KSh 2.9 million in seed money
• Bolt Country Manager Linda Ndungu said each driver will receive KSh 288,000 in seed funding and additional guidance

The top ten Kenyan digital taxi drivers and couriers have received over KSh 2.9 million in seed funding from Bolt Kenya.

The ride-hailing company feted the drivers in an award ceremony on Thursday, September 19, held at the Sarova Stanley Hotel, Nairobi.

How much has each Bolt driver received?

Speaking during the event, Bolt General Manager Linda Ndung'u revealed that each driver will receive €2,000 (KSh 288,000) in seed funding and additional guidance.

“Our driver and courier partners are at the very core of the Bolt ecosystem. They are not just service providers; but are essential members of a broader community that keeps millions of people connected across Kenya and beyond. We recognise that, and today we are happy to be celebrating their importance and investing in their future.

“To the winners, your dedication and creativity have rightfully earned you this recognition, along with about KSh 280,000 in seed funding. We are eager to see where your entrepreneurial journey leads from here,” said Ndungu.

The company awarded the drivers who participated in its Accelerator Program.

The top ten drivers and couriers were crowned based on their most compelling and innovative ideas.

How Bolt drivers will use seed money

The event, held in partnership with The Nest Innovation Technology Park, aimed to empower Bolt drivers to bring their bold, sustainable transport ideas to life.

Ndungu noted that the awardees will embark on a transformative 6-week post-mentorship programme for guidance, mentorship, and access to a network of industry experts, equipping them with the tools and support needed to propel their businesses to success.

Notable awards at the ceremony went to Adrian Kagiri Amunga (Most Innovative Idea), Antony Gwaro Nyangaresi (Most Scalable Idea) and Teddy Muthami Muriithi (Best Pitch).

Launched in April 2024, the Bolt Accelerator Program received over 800 applications from drivers and couriers in Kenya.

From the pool of applicants, 120 entrepreneurs were shortlisted and went through the Bolt Academy, a business skills training phase.

The Nest Innovation Technology Park Co-Founder Oluwajoba Oloba said the accelerator programme was essential for driving innovation and entrepreneurship in Kenya.

"By offering resources, mentorship, and financial backing, individuals are empowered and this in turn helps boost Kenya's GDP. A vibrant startup ecosystem fosters job creation, attracts foreign investment, and strengthens economic resilience.

"We commend Bolt and encourage other organisations and government agencies to support these initiatives to unlock Kenya’s full entrepreneurial potential," said Oloba.

Principal Secretary, State Department of MSME Development Susan Auma Mang’eni explained that the programme aligns perfectly with Kenya’s Vision 2030 economic development and job creation goals.

"By fostering innovation at the grassroots level, we’re contributing to a future where technology and entrepreneurship drive prosperity for all Kenyans, and truly, your efforts are shaping the future of mobility in Kenya.

"The Government is committed to empowering drivers and fostering entrepreneurship. We will continue to partner with the private sector to provide a conducive environment for growth and development of the service industry,” said Auma.

Bolt increases driver earnings

In August 2024, ride-hailing apps in Kenya announced an increase in fare rates a month after digital taxi drivers downed their tools over low payment.

Bolt Kenya is among the companies that announced an increase in their fares by more than 10%.

The company said the move was aimed at increasing driver earnings and enhancing their working conditions.

Proofreading by Mercy Nyambura Guthua, journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke