Kenya: Bolt Comfort Rides Grow Sixfold in Kenya

What the report says

Bolt says demand for its Comfort ride category in Kenya has risen sharply, with trips increasing more than sixfold over the past year and monthly passenger numbers climbing by more than fivefold. The growth has been seen in Nairobi and Mombasa, according to the Capital FM report distributed by AllAfrica, as the premium service gains traction among riders seeking higher-comfort options.

The company said Comfort was launched in Kenya in June 2025 and has since reached its highest monthly ride volume. Bolt also said the number of drivers eligible to offer Comfort trips has nearly tripled since launch, while estimated passenger pickup times have improved by about 18 percent year on year. The service is designed to offer more space, newer vehicles and highly rated drivers.

Bolt Senior General Manager for Rides in East Africa Dimmy Kanyankole said the increase reflected stronger demand for different ride choices. The company said Comfort has maintained an average passenger rating of about 4.9 out of 5, and drivers must meet rating and inspection requirements to qualify. In Kenya, vehicles are checked through a local inspection partner, with Bolt subsidizing part of the cost for eligible drivers.

The report also noted that Comfort first operated in one Nairobi zone before expanding across the city, and later launched in Mombasa in May 2026, its first expansion outside the capital. The figures point to growing competition and segmentation in Kenya’s ride-hailing market, where users are increasingly selecting services based on comfort, vehicle quality and wait times.