A new survey conducted by Ipsos and commissioned by Bolt has revealed that 94% of Kenyan ride-hailing users consider these services to be safer than traditional forms of transport such as matatus and regular taxis.
The study, which surveyed 250 active users across Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru, shows a huge shift in how Kenyans perceive safety and convenience in urban mobility.
According to the report, women account for 70% of ride-hailing users in Kenya, with the majority aged between 18 and 34 years.
When asked why they preferred ride-hailing apps, 70% of respondents cited convenience, while 57% pointed to safety as the main reason.
The report further highlights that 97% of riders believe in-app safety technologies significantly enhance their sense of security. The most valued safety features included driver verification at 79% and the SOS button at 78%.
In addition, the findings reveal that 94% of users feel safer using ride-hailing services at night, with many attributing this to features like real-time location sharing and ride-tracking.
Speaking during the launch of the report in Nairobi, Bolt’s Senior General Manager, Dimmy Kanyankole, said the company views safety as central to its operations.
“It transcends the mere avoidance of harm but is built on the premise of preventing incidents through the smart use of technology, data, and accountability,” he stated. “These findings reaffirm that safety and reliability are not just expectations from users, but the foundation of trust that defines our relationship with them.”
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From Ipsos’ perspective, the results represent a radical change in public attitudes toward mobility.
“This research reflects a significant behavioural shift in how Kenyans approach urban mobility. Ride-hailing is increasingly viewed as not only a convenient option but also a safer and more responsible one, especially among young women and professionals,” said Soyinka Witness, Strategy Director at Ipsos Sub-Saharan Africa.
Interestingly, the study also revealed broader social benefits. 79% of respondents believe ride-hailing services have helped reduce drunk-driving by providing an accessible and dependable alternative.
Furthermore, 64% said they have booked rides for friends or family members who were unfit to drive or needed a safe means of transport
