NAIROBI, Kenya — Ride-hailing company Bolt has increased fares in Kenya following sustained rises in fuel prices, in a move the company says is aimed at cushioning drivers against higher operating costs.
In an announcement on Tuesday, Bolt confirmed a 6% upward adjustment in fares, citing feedback from driver partners struggling with the rising cost of fuel and maintenance.
The decision comes against the backdrop of recent fuel price revisions by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), which set maximum retail prices in Nairobi at Ksh.197.60 for Super Petrol, Ksh.196.63 for Diesel, and Ksh.152.78 for Kerosene. The rates remain in force until May 14, 2026, when a new review is expected.
According to the mobility platform, the fare adjustment is part of ongoing efforts to balance affordability for riders with sustainable earnings for drivers.
Dimmy Kanyankole, Senior General Manager for Rides in East Africa at Bolt, said the company was responding directly to economic pressures affecting its driver network.
“Our driver partners are at the heart of our platform, and their ability to earn sustainably is critical to the entire ecosystem. This fare adjustment is part of a broader effort to respond meaningfully to their concerns, particularly around fuel prices, while ensuring that our service remains accessible and dependable for riders,” said Kanyankole in a statement.
He added:
“We understand that price changes affect both drivers and riders, and we have taken a thoughtful approach to ensure that this adjustment supports the sustainability of our platform for everyone.”
Kanyankole also argued that improved driver earnings would enhance service delivery across the platform.
“Better-paid drivers mean more drivers on the roads, leading to shorter wait times, improved service quality, and a more consistent rider experience.”
The adjustment follows earlier tensions in Kenya’s ride-hailing sector, where operators briefly announced a minimum fare of Ksh.450 for short trips of up to three kilometres after previous fuel hikes. However, the proposed changes were not adopted by major platforms and did not take effect for consumers.
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The latest fare review comes as EPRA prepares for another monthly fuel pricing cycle, with analysts warning that global oil markets remain volatile due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which have disrupted supply chains.
In response to rising transport and fuel costs, President William Ruto recently announced a Ksh.6.5 billion government intervention aimed at cushioning households from fuel price shocks.
Separately, the National Assembly also approved reductions in Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products from 16% to 8%, a move intended to soften pump price increases and ease pressure on transport and food costs.
Despite these measures, fuel remains a key inflation driver in Kenya, with transport costs continuing to affect both urban commuters and logistics-dependent businesses.
