According to Bolt Kenya, all of its ride categories now have basic charges that are up to 10% more expensive. This action comes after a week-long protest by drivers calling for increased pay.
The firm argues that the action demonstrates its dedication to attending to the issues raised by its drivers, who are crucial to Bolt’s operations, particularly concerning the growing cost of living.
Linda Ndungu, Bolt’s General Manager for Rides, recognises the need to increase the price. The fare adjustment is a step in the right direction towards acknowledging the value that drivers bring to the industry every day.
The company believes that the price increase will help the drivers get paid fairly, enabling them to keep offering the reliable and secure transportation that the passengers rely on.
Read also: Nigerian Uber, Bolt drivers reject price cuts, threaten boycott
Bolt’s 10% fare increase
All rides scheduled on the Bolt platform will immediately receive a 10% fare rise. For instance, the base fare for the Economy category, which was KSh 200, will now be KSh 220.
The ride-hailing platform believes that the adjustment will have a favourable effect on driver income, which will ultimately inspire the drivers to continue using the app and providing high-quality services.
It adds that it consults with industry regulators and its driver community to understand their challenges, particularly regarding the growing operational costs.
In response to the feedback, the company changed the fare to enable its drivers to earn a living while offering passengers throughout Kenya safe, dependable, and excellent service.
Read also: Nigerians and South Africans clash in new Bolt ordering war
Uber’s price increase
Bolt’s fare increase is coming after a similar move made by Uber Kenya, which raised fares for all ride categories, including the minimum and per-kilometre rates.
Uber made the same move in reaction to growing discontent among its drivers, who had started changing their fare rates and rejecting clients who wouldn’t pay them.
Kenyan ride-hailing drivers went on a five-day boycott in July 2024 to protest higher wages and the scrapping of value-added taxes. They demanded that the minimum fare be increased from KSh 180 to KSh 300, believing that this upward price review would adequately cover their operational costs.
Bolt promises to closely observe Kenya’s economic scenarios and engage with relevant industry players to carry out any future pricing reviews that may be required.