Bolt, formerly taxify, Europe and Africa’s ride-hailing platform is set to launch its operations in 3 major urban centers in Kenya in a move that makes it the largest ride-hailing platform in Kenya geographically.
With a new footprint in Kisumu, Kakamega and Thika, Bolt will be in five towns from the current two-Nairobi and Mombasa against Uber’s Nairobi, Mombasa and Thika.
According to Ola Akinnusi, the Bolt Country Manager in Kenya, “Launching in these areas will allow us to provide a safe and affordable avenue for passengers to get a ride.”
Akinnusi added that it was natural that Bolt would gradually expand across the country after operations in Nairobi and Mombasa cities. The firm is now looking at building new communities in Kisumu, Kakamega and Thika as it continues to gain the trust of the Kenyan people.
With the local expansions taking place, Bolt has also done so globally, recently launching in London hence widening the scope of the business that now extends to
private cars, e-scooters and motorcycles as well as food delivery in some
parts of the world.
Bolt provides 85% net income in Kenya to its drivers, charging a commission
of 15% which is almost half of the fees charged by other platforms currently
available in the market.
The company has also laid out a rapid expansion plan in East Africa with a
five-year strategy focused on local transportation options such as ‘boda
bodas’ and ‘tuk tuks’.
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“We are always looking out for partnerships and opportunities that will enable drivers to reduce the cost of doing business and have better earnings. We have always believed that happy drivers translate into better customer service for the riders,” said
Mr Akinnusi
Founded by Markus Villig, Bolt launched in 2013, Bolt’s investors include Daimler, Didi Chuxing, Korelya Capital and TransferWise co-founder Taavet Hinrikus.
