Bolt App to automatically issue alert if ride stops abruptly

Bolt Kenya is gearing up for the launch of a new safety campaign as part of its continued commitment to enhancing security for its passengers and drivers.

Linda Ndungu, the General Manager of Bolt Kenya, shared details of the upcoming initiatives and the company’s broader efforts to improve the ride-hailing experience in the country.

Ms. Ndungu highlighted Bolt’s existing measures, which include an SOS button for emergencies, a trip-sharing feature for passengers, and intensified training for drivers.

She said a trip anomaly detection system has now also been implemented, allowing the company to monitor trips in real-time and alert authorities if a journey stops unexpectedly.

Bolt plans to work more closely with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and the Association of Professional Associations (APA) to maintain high standards of safety and service quality for its drivers.

“We ask for background documentation on drivers through the Police Clearance Certificate and collaborate with both the NTSA and APA to verify that our drivers meet the necessary safety and professional standards,” Ms. Ndungu explained.

This partnership, she noted, aims to provide a safe and reliable service for passengers and build trust within the community.

Bolt Kenya is also taking steps to support its drivers financially, particularly in the area of vehicle financing.

Ms. Ndungu discussed the company’s partnership with Haki, which aims to address the high costs faced by drivers when acquiring vehicles.

“We didn't want to get into an arrangement that is expensive, so we selected Haki because it has a history of offering ride-hailing services with a fair interest rate for drivers,” she explained.

The partnership, which Bolt piloted in the third and fourth quarters of the year, also includes additional financing from the company to make vehicles more affordable for drivers.

In response to driver concerns about pricing and earnings, Bolt says it has engaged in numerous roundtable discussions.

“Ultimately, what we focus on is the money going to the driver’s pocket. A more sustainable approach is looking at the root cause of what is eating away at the prices,” stated Ms. Ndungu, further explaining that drivers receive 82% of each fare, while Bolt takes an 18% commission.

The company also absorbs the cost of discounts offered to passengers, ensuring drivers are not financially impacted.

The Bolt General Manager said the company considers several factors when setting fares, including distance, time, vehicle type, and maintenance costs.

Additionally, the company may adjust fares when fuel prices rise to maintain fair compensation for drivers.

As part of its commitment to sustainable transportation, Bolt Kenya is also working with Mkopa to provide electric motorcycles to its riders in order to reduce operational costs and increase their earnings.

“Running an electric bike is also cheaper, and we aim to reduce the upfront cost for our riders to ensure they have more in their pocket,” Ms. Ndungu added.