Ride-hailing company Bolt has invested more than Ksh19 billion in Kenya over the past decade, connecting more than 8 million riders and creating income opportunities for over 170,000 drivers and couriers. Bolt announced the figures on Monday, September 7, 2026, as it marked 10 years since it began operations in the Kenyan market.The company revealed its operations have expanded beyond Nairobi to six regions and 19 towns, reflecting the growth of ride-hailing and other digital services in the country.According to Bolt, its platform has become an important source of income for thousands of Kenyans, particularly drivers, couriers and other workers participating in the gig economy.Bolt, in partnership with Ipsos, estimates that Kenya’s gig economy currently supports about 1.5 million workers and generates more than Ksh130 billion annually.The 2026 Gig Economy Report found that ride-hailing accounts for about 20 per cent of gig economy activity in Kenya, making it the second-largest segment after e-commerce.The report also found that the average Bolt driver earns about KSh63,000 per month, while the top 20 per cent of drivers can earn as much as Ksh184,000 monthly.Boda boda riders using ride-hailing platforms were estimated to earn an average of Ksh56,000 per month, according to the report.More than half of surveyed drivers, at 53 per cent, identified Bolt as their primary source of income, highlighting the platform’s role in supporting livelihoods.The report further found that 98 per cent of surveyed ride-hailing participants said their standard of living had improved through gig work, with 54 per cent reporting a significant improvement.Bolt also highlighted the growing role of technology in Kenya’s transition towards cleaner transport, saying seven in 10 electric vehicles operating in the country use its platform.Investment from Bolt over the past 10 years has supported the expansion of its services while contributing to the wider digital economy and creating new earning opportunities.Bolt’s milestone comes as Kenya’s gig economy continues to expand, with digital platforms providing alternative sources of income amid changing employment patterns.The company said it would continue investing in Kenya and expanding its services as it enters its next decade in the country.
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