Ride-hailing company Bolt has increased fares for users in Kenya, citing rising fuel prices and mounting pressure on drivers’ operating costs. The company announced a 6% fare adjustment on Tuesday, saying the move is aimed at cushioning drivers while maintaining service stability across its platform.
The decision comes in the wake of higher fuel prices set by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA). As of April 16, 2026, fuel prices in Nairobi were capped at Ksh.197.60 for Super Petrol, Ksh.196.63 for Diesel, and Ksh.152.78 for Kerosene. These rates will remain in effect until May 14, 2026, when EPRA is expected to issue a new pricing review. Bolt noted that the fare increase follows consistent feedback from drivers who have raised concerns over increasing fuel and maintenance costs.
According to Dimmy Kanyankole, Senior General Manager for Rides in East Africa at Bolt, the fare revision is intended to support driver earnings while keeping the service affordable for passengers. He explained that drivers are central to the platform’s operations and that ensuring their financial stability is key to sustaining reliable transport services. Kanyankole further noted that higher earnings for drivers are expected to improve availability, reduce waiting times, and enhance overall service quality for riders.
The latest fare adjustment comes against a backdrop of broader changes in Kenya’s transport sector. Following earlier fuel price increases, some online taxi operators had proposed a minimum fare for short trips, although these proposals were not formally adopted by major platforms. Ride-hailing companies have instead opted for gradual adjustments while continuing discussions with drivers on operational challenges.
The government has also introduced measures aimed at easing pressure on consumers, including fuel subsidies and tax adjustments. The National Assembly previously reduced Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products from 16% to 8% in an effort to stabilise prices. In addition, global fuel markets remain unpredictable due to geopolitical tensions, including unrest in the Middle East, which continues to affect supply chains and pricing. President William Ruto recently announced a Ksh.6.5 billion intervention package to help cushion Kenyans from rising fuel costs.
With EPRA expected to announce its next fuel price review soon, commuters and transport operators remain watchful. Any further increases could trigger additional adjustments across the ride-hailing industry. For now, platforms like Bolt say they will continue engaging both drivers and riders to strike a balance between affordability and sustainability.
