Bolt has today announced an increase in its base fare across all ride categories. This is in response to the recent protest by drivers who demanded better pay. Uber raised its base fare last week by 10% and it seem like Bolt is reacting to that move with today’s announcement.
This price change is good news but not enough according to the drivers I have spoken to. Most want Bolt and Uber to lower the commission they charge the drivers and not just hike the base fares. They argue that the taxi hailing apps take so much money for every trip leaving them with little money after paying for fuel and maintenance costs. They also claim Bolt and Uber have some of the highest commissions compared to the other apps on the market.
Bolt says the price change was arived at after extensive dialogue with its drivers and the industry regulator. It says these adjustments should help drivers maintain sustainable earnings while continuing to provide safe, reliable, and high-quality service.
Following the announcement, all rides booked through the Bolt platform will reflect a 10% increase in the base fare, for example the base fare for the Economy category will move from Kshs. 200 to Kshs. 220. A ride that normally costs Ksh 1,000 will now cost Ksh 1,100.
As the drives have been potesting the past few weeks, some have been asking riders to pay up to 1.5 times more than what is indicated in the app. In such a case, for a ride that costs Ksh 1,000, the drive would ask the client to pay Ksh 1,500 which is outrageous.
Linda Ndungu, General Manager, Rides said- “Today we have announced a 10% fare increase on our platform as we recognise the essential role our drivers play in delivering exceptional service to our customers. 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. 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.”
Also Read: Bolt and Hakki Africa Partner to Provide Vehicle Financing for Drivers
