Thousands of e-hailing drivers have taken to the streets of Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, in a five-day strike that began on Monday. The protest, which has brought much of the city’s ride-hailing services to a standstill, sees drivers from major platforms including Uber, Bolt, Little, and Faras demanding better pay and improved working conditions.
At the heart of the dispute is the alleged non-compliance of ride-hailing companies with regulations set by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). Drivers claim that despite a 2022 mandate limiting commission fees to 18%, companies continue to extract higher percentages from their earnings. They’re also pushing for a minimum fare of 300 Kenyan shillings per trip, citing rising fuel costs and other expenses.
The striking drivers, who organized themselves without formal union involvement, have employed aggressive tactics to ensure widespread participation. Reports suggest some are forcibly turning off the apps of non-participating colleagues and removing passengers from vehicles.
Both Uber and Bolt have responded to the protests, stating they are compliant with NTSA regulations, including the 18% commission cap. However, drivers argue that the reality on the ground tells a different story.
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The strike has left many Nairobi residents scrambling for alternative transportation, with available rides commanding premium prices. As protesters march from Green Park Terminus to various government and company offices, increased security presence and traffic disruptions are expected throughout the week.
This industrial action highlights the growing tensions in the gig economy, where workers are increasingly demanding better protections and fair compensation. As the strike continues, all eyes are on how ride-hailing companies and local authorities will respond to the drivers’ demands.
