Hundreds of partner drivers in Kenya have turned off the Uber, Bolt, and Faras apps, forcing passengers to wait longer and pay more for trips. It is the second strike after the ride-hailing companies increased base fares by 10% in August. The drivers argue that those increases are insignificant and want a minimum base fare of KES300 ($2.33) for cabs.
We have resumed the strike because our demands were not met. We are meeting NTSA officials who have convened a session with all the stakeholders to find a solution, said Dennis Nyariki, the vice chairman of the Organisation of Online Drivers Kenya (OOD).
In a few instances on Tuesday, gig drivers who defied the strike action were harassed, and their tyres deflated. Most decided to stay home, only responding to regular clients who take rides off the app.
I cant take you to Westlands. Its risky. Some drivers have been attacked for not complying, said Steve Musyoki, a 34-year-old driver. The companies have left many drivers trapped with loans, unable to provide for their families.
Uber and Bolt launched in Kenya in 2015 and 2016, respectively, and their low prices and convenience made them popular options in Nairobi. However, increased competition and a push to acquire customers has led to pricing decisions that drivers disagree with.
