Bolt Announces Expansion to Kakamega, Thika, and Kisumu

Estonian ride-hailing firm Bolt, formerly called Taxify, has announced its expansion to three more towns in Kenya. This as it continues to widen its reach across the country, in competition with Uber and Little Cab. Uber operates in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Thika while Little Cab operates in Nairobi, Kisumu, and Mombasa.

On Wednesday, the firm launched its services in Kakamega, Thika, and Kisumu; bringing the total number of towns it covers to five, including Nairobi and Mombasa. This makes it the largest taxi-hailing platform by geographical coverage in the country.

“After Nairobi and Mombasa cities, it was natural that Bolt would gradually expand across the country. We now intend to build new communities in Kisumu, Kakamega, and Thika as we continue to gain the trust of the Kenyan people,” said Ola Akinnusi, the Bolt Country Manager for Kenya, at the press conference.

“Launching in these areas will allow us to provide a safe and affordable avenue for passengers to get a ride.”

The firm also unveiled a rapid expansion plan for East Africa, whose five-year strategy will focus on the provision of local transportation options that include tuk-tuks and boda-bodas.

Bolt revealed that it charges a 15 percent commission on net profit, leaving its drivers with 85 percent.

“We are always looking out for partnerships and opportunities that will enable drivers to reduce the cost of doing business and have better earnings. We have always believed that happy drivers translate into better customer service for the riders,” said Akinnusi.