Africa’s largest ride-sharing app, Bolt, has announced a 4 % increase in fuel prices, necessitated by the increase in fuel prices.
The 4 % increase translates to a Ksh 0.47 additional charge that will be incurred per kilometer to protect platform drivers from the recent 3.9 % increase in the prices of fuel. Previously, rides were charged Ksh 26.90 per kilometer. That has now changed to Ksh 27.27 per kilometer.
The app has also increase the minimum price on its Lite category from Ksh 150 to Ksh 180, as well as the start fee from Ksh 50 to Ksh 70. In a statement, Bolt regional manager Kenneth Micah said the price increment is commensurate with the prevailing state of things and the need for Bolt to cushion drivers against the exponential increase in fuel prices.
“We have therefore reviewed our pricing to reflect the current market realities. We are confident that this increase in fares will cushion against the 3.9% rise in fuel cost, and therefore contribute to sustained strong earnings on the platform,” He stated.
To further keep them protected from the incessant rice in fuel prices, Bolt drivers are given a prepaid Rubis card that sees to it that they get a 10 % discount at all Rubis gas stations, per a partnership between Bolt and Rubis.
The current price rates have hitherto only been enforced in Nairobi but the company is reviewing prices in other Kenyan towns. Here are some reactions from Bolt users:
