Bolt, a ride-hailing and mobility platform that connects passengers with drivers through its mobile app, has cleared the air on reports that it plans to cease operations in Kenya on June 8.
The company issued a statement on June 1, after a document purporting to be an official communication from Bolt Kenya circulated widely on social media and messaging platforms.
In the statement, Bolt’s Senior General Manager for East Africa, Dimmy Kanyankole, said the document was fraudulent and did not originate from the company or any of its authorized representatives.
“It has come to our attention that a fraudulent document purporting to be an official communication from Bolt Kenya is currently circulating on social media and messaging platforms. The document falsely claims that Bolt will cease operations in the Kenyan market effective 8th June 2026,” Bolt stated.
Bolt Dismisses shutdown notice as Fake
The firm categorically denied reports suggesting it would cease operations in Kenya and reassured customers, driver-partners and other stakeholders that its services remain fully operational across the country.
Further, the company said it continues to serve thousands of users through its platform and remains committed to providing transport and mobility solutions in the Kenyan market.
Bolt added that its focus remains on delivering safe, reliable, and innovative services while creating economic opportunities for driver-partners.
Also Read: Bolt Adjusts Fares by 6% to Support Driver Earnings Amid Rising Fuel Costs
“We urge all driver-partners, customers, and members of the public to disregard the circulating document in its entirety, refrain from sharing or amplifying this misinformation, and rely solely on official communications,” the statement read.
According to the company, investigations are underway to establish the source of the fabricated document.
Bolt said it would take appropriate action against individuals responsible for creating and disseminating false information that misrepresents the company and its operations.
Controversial Document Trending Across Platforms
A document dated June 1, 2026, and presented as a public notice from Bolt Kenya began circulating widely on social media and messaging platforms, triggering speculation about the company’s future in the country.
The notice claimed that Bolt would cease operations in Kenya effective June 8, 2026. It stated that the decision had been reached after extensive consultations and a review of the company’s operations.
“We wish to inform all drivers and customers that Bolt will cease its operations in the Kenyan market effective Monday, 8th June 2026,” it read in part.
According to the document, the alleged closure was linked to challenges in addressing concerns and demands raised by driver-partners while maintaining a sustainable business model.
Also Read: Bolt Clarifies Pricing Adjustments After EV Boda Riders Demonstrations
Bolt Pricing Dispute Sparks Demonstrations in Nairobi
Bolt issued a clarification regarding commissions and fare earnings of its electric boda riders following demonstrations on May 25th by a section of its electric boda boda riders in Nairobi, who raised concerns over reduced trip fares, high commission charges and rising operational costs.
According to the riders, the current earnings model is making it difficult to sustain livelihoods despite the continued growth of app-based transport services in Nairobi.
Bolt riders claimed that frequent fare adjustments and increased competition within the sector have reduced their take-home earnings.
It said the unrest was triggered by misunderstandings around recent adjustments to EV trip pricing.
According to the company, electric boda trips had historically been priced higher than petrol-powered (ICE) rides despite lower running costs for electric motorcycles.
The company said it had corrected this “pricing anomaly” by aligning EV fares slightly below ICE equivalents, arguing that the move was meant to improve fairness across the platform rather than reduce rider income.
Riders, however, argue that the changes have effectively lowered their daily earnings, especially for those operating under loan or lease agreements for electric motorcycles.
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