Kenyan drivers for ride-hailing platforms like Uber and Bolt are pushing back against unsustainable earnings by setting their own fares, defying the companies’ algorithmic pricing models.
This rebellion is fueled by the rising cost of living and ongoing economic challenges in the East African nation, according to Reuters.
Drivers Push Back Against Falling Fares
Across Nairobi, drivers are feeling the pinch of a brutal price war between global and local ride-hailing companies, including Uber, Bolt, Little, and Faras.
The fierce competition has driven fares to what many drivers consider unlivable levels.
“Most of us have these cars on loan, and with the cost of living rising, we can’t survive on these rates,” driver Judith Chepkwony told Reuters.
To cope, many drivers are negotiating directly with passengers to secure fares above those generated by the ride-hailing apps.
Chepkwony estimates that about half of her customers agree to pay more, allowing her to keep her business afloat.
Clash with Ride-Hailing Giants
Uber has warned its drivers that such practices violate company guidelines and has urged them to comply with the app’s pricing.
However, with Kenya being one of Uber’s key markets in Africa, the company faces a significant challenge in enforcing its rules amid widespread driver discontent.
Bolt, another major player, is also discouraging the practice but acknowledges the need for a long-term solution that balances the interests of both drivers and passengers.
Collective Action Among Drivers
In the meantime, drivers are finding creative ways to maintain their livelihoods.
Many are using walkie-talkie apps like Zello to collectively agree on fare increases, ensuring that customers encounter consistent pricing even if they switch between services.
Some drivers have even printed and laminated fare guides, displaying them in their vehicles to make negotiations easier.
As drivers continue to push back against the automated pricing systems, the standoff between them and the ride-hailing companies shows no sign of easing.
For many passengers, this has led to longer waits and more time spent haggling over fares—an ironic twist in a service designed to offer convenience.
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