The National Transport and Safety Authority has renewed Bolt’s operating licence.
NTSA said that the licence is for the period between October 30, 2023, and October 30, 2022.
The issuance of the licence was based on the Transport Network Companies, Owners, Drivers, and Passengers Regulations of 2022.
“This is to certify that BOLT OPERATIONS OU of Plot No. L.R. NO: 209/22216 has been dully licensed by the National Transport and Safety Authority under licence No. NTSA/TNC/2023/004 to conduct transport network business in Kenya pursuant to and in accordance with the provision of the National Transport and Safety Authority (Transport Network Companies, Owners, Drivers, and Passengers) Regulations, 2022,” a licence by NTSA reads.
Previously, NTSA declined to renew the company’s operational licence citing pressing concerns in relation to commission charges and an illegal booking fee which had caused significant concerns amongst taxi drivers under its operations.
The regulator argued that Bolt was taking more than the 18% commission required by law.
Speaking in a press briefing, Linda Ndungu, Bolt’s manager in Kenya, described Bolt’s licence renewal as a testament to the company’s dedication to adhering to Kenyan regulations as a foundation to building a long-term sustainable business that positively contributes to all stakeholders in the ecosystem.
“We are happy to receive the renewal of our operating licence from the NTSA, after collaborative dialogue between key stakeholders within the industry. This accomplishment reflects our ongoing commitment to providing viable earning opportunities to drivers on our platform, and providing reliable and cost-efficient services to our customers,” Ndungu said.
Currently, Bolt’s services extend to numerous areas, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Kakamega, Nakuru, Naivasha, Eldoret, Kitale, Nyeri, Meru, and Nanyuki.