Bolt Kenya Announces 10% Fare Increase To Address Driver Earnings Concerns

• 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

Bolt Taxi has joined other players in Kenya's ride-hailing sector to raise fare rates.

The company announced a 10% increase in base fares across all its ride categories.

What are the new Bolt fare charges in Kenya?

The base fare for the Economy category will increase from KSh 200 to KSh 220.

A spot check by TUKO.co.ke on Tuesday, August 27, showed the reflection of the changes, with Bolt XL now charging KSh 1,400 for an 8km distance.

Richard, a Bolt driver, welcomed the move, saying it will help cut the rising operations costs, especially fuel.

"Bolt and other digital taxi apps have taken a bold step in increasing the fare rates. We were struggling, but now some expenses will be met easily. But they need to further look at our welfare," Richard argued in response to TUKO.co.ke.

Bolt Kenya General Manager Linda Ndungu said the increase will provide better returns for each trip completed.

“The 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," said Ndungu.

The increase in fares showed the company's commitment to providing fair compensation and enhancing working conditions for its driver-partners.

Bolt has also introduced several initiatives, including driver rewards like the ongoing drive for a prize campaign, driver compliments features on its app, and driver engagement forums to enhance driver relations.

Why Bolt and other digital taxis increased fares

In July 2024, digital taxi drivers downed their tools, demanding a review of ride rates by ride-hailing apps.

The drivers took to the streets of Nairobi, complaining about low ride charges and high commission charges from the companies.

Most drivers wanted the companies to raise ride charges and reduce commissions and other unnecessary charges.

Little App announced a 15% increase in rates, while Uber raised its rides rates by 10% in all fleet categories.

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