When Bolt first launched in Kenya, it entered the market with a promise to make ride-hailing more accessible and affordable. However, over time, the platform has faced growing scrutiny over safety issues affecting both drivers and passengers. Reports of harassment, theft, and physical assaults have steadily increased, prompting calls for stronger protective measures.
In response, Bolt has unveiled a new dash cam feature integrated into its mobile app, specifically tailored for the Kenyan market. This innovation leverages the driver’s smartphone camera to record video footage during trips. The recordings are securely stored and can be accessed in the event of disputes, misconduct, or emergencies. Unlike traditional physical dash cams which are expensive to install and maintain this solution is designed to be cost-effective, easy to activate, and user-friendly, requiring just a tap to begin recording.
This latest move builds on Bolt’s earlier safety initiatives in Kenya. In 2024, the company introduced an SOS button that connects users directly to emergency services, offering immediate assistance during critical situations. More recently, Bolt launched FamilyProfile in select markets such as Nigeria, allowing users to share ride details with family members, track trips in real-time, and set spending limits for added control and peace of mind.
In South Africa, Bolt has also been piloting electric motorcycles with flexible financing options, aimed at helping drivers reduce operational costs and improve earnings. The competitive landscape is also influencing Bolt’s safety upgrades. Rivals like Uber have tested in-car audio and video recording features in various regions, while smaller African ride-hailing platforms have emphasized safety guarantees to attract and retain users. For Bolt, staying ahead in this space means not only matching but exceeding industry standards to maintain driver loyalty and rider confidence.
Kenya remains one of Bolt’s most active and strategically important markets in Africa. The company recognizes that addressing safety concerns is critical to sustaining growth and ensuring long-term viability. By introducing the dash cam app, Bolt is harnessing technology to foster a safer, more transparent ride-hailing experience reaffirming its commitment to both drivers and passengers.
