Bolt dismisses 5000 of its drivers due to safety negligence 

For every ride-hailing company, safety is important as it is seen as an idea that can impact the operations of such an organization. Knowing this fully well, some Bolt drivers in Kenya have still been nonchalant about keeping it safe and have reportedly faced termination by Bolt Management. 

Bolt is a ride-hailing company available in 45+ countries with over 3000 professionals and over 3 million drivers. The company has always emphasized the importance of driving safely and keeping customers comfortable. Sticking to its word, in the last six months,  the company has let go of  5000 drivers in Kenya because they have been unable to comply with safety rules. To even do better, the cab company has decided to invest in safety-related practices with about KES 20 million ($130,000). 

In Kenya, different concerns were raised and have ranged from instances of drivers assaulting passengers to unauthorized selling of Bolt driver accounts to third parties. All of these happenings have prompted the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to request that the ride-hailing company address the ongoing safety concerns related to both drivers and riders. 

Bolt was left with no choice but to comply with the directives if they needed to renew their annual license. In response, the company revealed a safety plan designed to enhance security within its platform. Furthermore, Bolt canceled its controversial "booking charge," a move that had sparked disputes among drivers and customers. Linda Ndungu, the Country Manager for Bolt Kenya, emphasized the company's commitment to the trust placed in them and expressed proactive measures to ensure the safety of their users during every ride.

The e-cab company has ramped up its initiatives to enforce platform rules, stating that any driver or rider who breaches safety protocols or fails to comply will encounter immediate and firm repercussions, potentially resulting in a permanent ban from the platform. Also, Bolt mentioned that it is intensifying its efforts to ensure adherence to safety standards and platform guidelines by implementing internal strategies, such as random driver selfie checks, training programs for both riders and drivers and other strict enforcement measures. 

The government has expressed considerable dissatisfaction regarding Bolt Kenya's operations, necessitating the implementation of these measures.

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