Bolt has suspended the 5 percent booking fee to get licensed renewed in Kenya after the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) recently declined to renew the operating license over alleged breaches, including illegal commission charges and booking fees. 

According to Linda Ndungu, Country Manager, Bolt Kenya, “Bolt would like to clarify that our operations are ongoing,uninterrupted, and our existing licence remains legally valid. The licence renewal process is currently in progress with constant engagement and collaboration with the National Transport and Safety Authority, and it is expected to be finalised by Monday, October 30, 2023 as per letter by NTSA to Bolt.”

Bolt is still operating in Kenya, according to Section 32(4) of the NTSA Act, which permits it to continue operating until the licence application process is officially determined. The NTSA Act states that “If on the date of the expiration of a licence…proceedings are pending before the Authority on an application by the licensee for the grant to him of a new licence, the existing licence shall continue in force until the application is determined…”

Ndungu adds that Bolt has taken swift action in response to NTSA’s concerns regarding the booking fee and commission. The firm added that its services are still accessible nationwide, and its committed to providing drivers with earning opportunities and affordable services to everyone.

“In strict compliance with NTSA’s requirements, Bolt has suspended the booking fee pending clarification with NTSA around the interpretation of the regulation on this particular matter. It is important to highlight that our commission structure strictly adheres to the stipulated regulatory requirement of capping at 18%,” Ndungu added. “We want to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to operating within the bounds of the law, ensuring that our operations fully align with the legal framework. We remain committed to collaborating closely with the regulator to ensure a successful outcome.”