Ride-hailing service platform Bolt has announced a 10 per cent fare increase in Kenya in a bid to address concerns raised by drivers over commissions.
The move comes after the company engaged its driver community in discussions aimed at better understanding their challenges, following a five-day strike in July 2024.
In a statement made on August 26 by General Manager Linda Ndung’u, Bolt said the feedback received highlighted the urgent need for a fare adjustment so as to help drivers maintain sustainable earnings.
“The feedback received highlighted the need for a fare adjustment to help drivers maintain sustainable earnings while continuing to provide safe, reliable, and high-quality service to riders across Kenya,” noted Ndung’u.
As a result, all rides booked through the Bolt platform will now have a 10% increase in the base fare, this change affects all ride categories, for instance, a ride that was once priced at Ksh.200 will now cost Ksh.220.
Bolt Efforts to Address Driver Concerns
Bolt believes this fare adjustment is not just a price change but also a step towards acknowledging the value their drivers bring to the platform every day.
“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,” she added.
Also Read: Bolt Introduces Driver Compliment Feature; How It Works
The company hopes this move will help cushion the drivers enabling them to earn a fair wage, which in turn will allow them to continue providing reliable transportation services to app users.
“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 Linda Ndungu.
Drivers Decry Low Earnings Amid Rising Cost of Living
The fare increase follows protests by digital taxi drivers who were complaining about the decrease in prices per kilometer despite the increased fuel prices and cost of living.
Consequently, the protests saw drivers set their own higher rates, refusing to serve passengers unwilling to pay more.
“We first ask the client where they are going and how much is shown on the app. Then we propose a rate based on our chart which can also be done by quickly multiplying by 1.5,” said a cab driver while speaking to Reuters.
Also Read: Bolt Introduces New Offline Safety Feature for Riders
“If they agree, we take the ride. If not we either negotiate further or decline because the current rates are not sustainable with higher fuel and spare parts prices.”
Uber a key player in the ride hailing industry has also recently announced that they will increase their prices in a bid to better address driver concerns.
Imran Manji, Head of East African Operations, stated that a re-evaluation had occurred after an extensive market data analysis and consultation with drivers.
“We’ve considered multiple factors to ensure drivers earn a decent income while passengers still benefit from affordability. Increasing of the prices was informed by a review of the cost of living, drivers’ feedback, not because of the protests only,” he added.
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