Kenyan gig drivers who work for ride-hailing platforms like Uber and Bolt are now setting their own fares instead of accepting the rates set by the apps. They are doing this because they feel the platforms are not paying them enough money, especially with the rising cost of living in Kenya.
The drivers have set a minimum fare of KSh 300 (GH¢36.35), which is higher than Uber’s standard KSh 200 (GH¢ 24.23) rate. For longer trips over 3 kilometers, they want to multiply the app’s standard fare by 1.5 to cover their increased costs. They have also set airport and railway station pickup and drop-off fares between KSh 1,000 (GH¢ 121.16) and KSh 5,000 (GH¢ 605.81), which is quite expensive.
This has led to a lot of negotiation with passengers, which can be frustrating for them. Uber has warned that this practice violates its guidelines and said any drivers found doing this will face disciplinary action. Bolt has also told drivers involved in the alleged off-app price hikes to stop until the issue is resolved.
However, the platforms are aware that being too harsh on the drivers could lead to more unrest and damage their reputation in Kenya. It’s clear that the future of ride-hailing in Kenya will be shaped by how this situation plays out between the drivers and the platforms. The drivers are challenging the status quo and advocating for fairer treatment, which could inspire other gig workers in Kenya and beyond who feel they are not being paid enough.
In an interview, some Ghanaian drivers expressed their views on fare disparities in ride-hailing services. They argued that the platforms are not solely to blame for low earnings, stating, “The issues that bring about price disparity are the waiting time and traffic delays.” They highlighted that customers sometimes leave without paying for extra rides or waiting time, which creates discomfort for drivers.
Regarding the situation in Kenya, they noted, “The actions of the drivers in Kenya indicate a threat to the platform,” suggesting that management should take active steps to address driver concerns. They believe that failing to do so could pose a security threat to the transport platform.
