Ride-hailing platform Bolt has increased fares by 6% to support driver partners affected by rising fuel costs while maintaining affordable transport for riders.
In a statement on Tuesday, May 12, Bolt said the adjustment followed feedback from drivers struggling with increased expenses.
The company said it has been engaging drivers and industry stakeholders to find a balance between driver earnings and rider affordability.
Bolt said the fare review is part of broader efforts to ensure the sustainability of its platform, noting that drivers remain central to its operations.
Bolt Raises Fares by 6% to Boost Driver Earnings Amid Rising Fuel Costs
Senior General Manager, Rides, East Africa, Dimmy Kanyankole, said Bolt driver partners are at the heart of its platform, and their ability to earn sustainably is critical to the entire ecosystem.
“This fare adjustment is part of a broader effort to respond meaningfully to their concerns, particularly around fuel prices, while ensuring that our service remains accessible and dependable for riders,” said Dimmy Kanyankole.
“The 6% increment ensures that riders continue to enjoy some of the most competitive fares in the market. Ultimately, we believe that better-paid drivers mean more drivers on the roads, leading to shorter wait times, improved service quality, and a more consistent rider experience.”
Also Read: Bolt Equips Women Drivers with Life-Saving Skills, Shares Safety Tips and Vehicle Checklist
Bolt Pledges Long-Term Driver Support
Aside from the fare adjustment, Bolt said it has continued to explore and implement initiatives to improve the driver experience and earnings in the long term.
These include ongoing platform enhancements, efficiency improvements, and continued engagement with driver partners to ensure their views are reflected in key decisions.
“We understand that price changes affect both drivers and riders, and we have taken a thoughtful approach to ensure that this adjustment supports the sustainability of our platform for everyone,” added Dimmy.
“We remain committed to listening, adapting, and building a service that works for all.”
Also Read: Step-by-Step Guide on How to Report Ride Problems with Bolt’s Support Feature
The company said sustainable demand remains the cornerstone of a healthy platform.
It noted that the 6 percent fare increase has been carefully modeled, with internal data showing it falls within riders’ price tolerance, helping protect trip volumes and ensuring drivers continue to receive steady orders throughout the day.
The move comes after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) last month raised the price of super petrol by Ksh19.32 to Ksh197.60 per litre and diesel by Ksh30.09 to Ksh196.63, citing higher landing costs linked to global supply disruptions.
