Bolt's new approach to ride-hailing safety #AD

Recognizing that safety requires a forward-thinking approach, Bolt has committed Ksh.14 billion over the next three years to raise awareness of its safety features and scale up preventive measures. The company has rolled out several technological advancements designed to mitigate risks and ensure a safer experience for all users.

Proactive Safety Features

According to Dimmy Kanyankole, Bolt’s General Manager for Kenya and Tanzania, safety should be a continuous priority within the industry.

“When I think about safety, it is not just about incident management, which is the narrow view many people take. It is about being proactive,” Kanyankole said.

Bolt drivers take a selfie as part of a verification process to ensure rider safety and authenticate their identity, and the photo is used to display on the app for riders to identify them. Another safety feature Bolt has introduced detects when an active trip has been stationary for an extended period. If a trip pauses unexpectedly, a pop-up message appears on both the driver’s and passenger’s devices, prompting them to confirm their safety. If either party signals distress, the system immediately alerts Bolt’s security team.

The goal of this feature is to act as a preventive measure—reassuring drivers and passengers that help is always within reach while deterring potential misbehavior. Bolt’s dedicated safety team consists of over 500 professionals who continuously undergo training to refine their response skills.

Rapid Response and Emergency Support

In cases of perceived danger or emergencies, passengers are encouraged to use the SOS button, which remains active throughout every ride. Bolt ensures that a specialized field team promptly responds to distress signals. Depending on the nature of the incident, either medical or security assistance is dispatched within five minutes or less.

“On the flip side, if it was an accident and the driver is unconscious, an emergency ambulance can be quickly dispatched, preventing further harm,” Kanyankole added.

Additionally, Bolt has taken steps to address the security risks associated with certain locations. By mapping out high-risk areas known for criminal activity, the company alerts drivers before they accept trips from these locations, allowing them to make informed decisions and take necessary precautions.

Empowering Drivers and Passengers

To further enhance transparency, Bolt has enabled trip-sharing features, allowing passengers to share their ride details with trusted contacts. This added layer of security helps prevent conflicts between drivers and riders while ensuring accountability.

“We value transparency because drivers on our platform are entrepreneurs. We strive to provide them with as much information as possible, including destination details, route insights, and payment methods, so they can make informed decisions about their trips,” Kanyankole explained.

By continuously refining its safety features and investing in technological innovations, Bolt is setting new industry standards, ensuring that ride-hailing remains a trusted and secure mode of transportation for all.