Bolt Kenya is awaiting an update on the renewal of its operating licence from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), with a decision expected today.
The renewal process has been delayed, but Bolt has said it is in “constant engagement and collaboration” with the NTSA. One issue in the renewal process is a 5% booking fee that Bolt has now suspended.
The fee was introduced in November 2022, after the Kenyan Ministry of Transport directed e-cab firms to reduce their commission to 18%. Bolt and Uber introduced booking fees to help offset the reduction.
Uber charges a maximum booking fee of 11%, which it says covers taxes such as VAT.
As part of its licence renewal agreement, Bolt was asked by the NTSA to provide information on how it plans to address concerns regarding driver and rider safety.
Despite its popularity in Kenya, the taxi app has faced accusations from customers regarding sexual harassment and assault by its driver partners.
