Mary Ndanu
A new safety index report by Ipsos, commissioned by Bolt, has revealed that a majority of Kenyans consider ride-hailing to be significantly safer than traditional transport models, including taxis and public service vehicles.
According to the findings, 89% of Kenyan ride-hailing users view Bolt as a safer transport option, citing features such as real-time GPS tracking, driver identity verification, emergency assistance, trusted-contact sharing and round-the-clock support.
The report also indicated that ride-hailing is increasingly being used to curb drunk driving, with 76% of respondents saying they opt for Bolt when they feel vulnerable including after consuming alcohol to avoid driving under the influence.
Ipsos noted a growing trend of Kenyans booking rides through Bolt on behalf of children, friends and relatives, especially during night-time travel, pointing to safety, reliability and convenience as the key reasons.
The Researchers said ride-hailing has become a trusted mobility solution for Kenyan passengers who view it as safer than informal and traditional transport options.
94% of users believe Bolt offers greater safety compared to other modes, driven by digital safety tools that enhance accountability and real-time support.97% said in-app emergency features make them feel safer, while driver-rating systems, GPS trip monitoring, identity checks and trip-sharing emerged as the most valued elements.
The survey also found a strong link between Bolt usage and reduced instances of drunk driving in major urban centres. However, some respondents cited pricing and low awareness of digital safety tools as barriers for wider adoption, especially among groups who still choose to drive after social drinking.
Speaking at the launch, Bolt Senior Operations Manager Arthur said the findings underscore the company’s commitment to safety as a core priority. He noted that more than 90 per cent of passengers who use Bolt feel safer, particularly at night, reinforcing the company’s role in promoting safer communities and supporting national efforts against drunk driving.
He said Bolt continues to invest in driver-screening processes, safety training, panic buttons, GPS monitoring, 24-hour support and constant communication to reinforce safe conduct.
“Our goal is to ensure every ride is safe, reliable and empowering for both passengers and drivers,” he said, adding that the company will continue collaborating with government, law enforcement and stakeholders to strengthen road safety.
In an interview, Bolt Regional PR Manager for Africa Sandra Buyole said Kenya remains one of the company’s strongest markets in Africa, where Bolt operates in Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana and Tanzania. She noted that by 2023, Bolt recorded more than 900,000 drivers in Africa and completed over one billion rides across the continent.
Buyole said the report was crucial in understanding how passengers perceive safety and mobility trends. She welcomed findings showing that 89% of users feel safer using Bolt and that 76% believe Bolt helps curb drunk driving.
“This data reinforces the impact we are making,” she said, noting that the insights will help the company strengthen safety features and improve user experience. “This is our maiden safety index report, and the insights are powerful. We are looking to do more in strengthening ride-hailing safety in Kenya.”
Bolt pledged continued investment in customer support, driver partnerships and technology to enhance safety for all users.
