On-demand mobility platform Bolt has released its flagship Gig Economy Report in partnership with Ipsos, revealing the growing role of platform-based work in improving livelihoods across Kenya.
The report, Bolt’s first comprehensive, data-driven analysis of digital income opportunities, highlights ride-hailing as a key contributor to financial stability and economic empowerment for thousands of Kenyans.
According to the findings, 53% of surveyed drivers rely on digital platforms as their primary source of income, while 47% use ride-hailing to supplement their earnings. This underscores the gig economy’s expanding role in providing both full-time income and additional financial support.
Beyond individual earnings, the report points to broader structural impacts within Kenya’s economy. Financial independence (28%) and flexible working arrangements (21%) remain the top motivations for joining the gig economy, reinforcing its appeal as an alternative employment model.
Drivers interviewed in the survey shared personal stories of transformation, with many citing improved financial stability after joining ride-hailing platforms. One driver noted that after a period of unemployment, he is now able to meet his monthly expenses consistently.
Ride-hailing is also emerging as a major pillar within Kenya’s digital economy. The report estimates that it accounts for approximately 20% of total gig economy activity, second only to e-commerce, which leads at 42%. This positions platform-based mobility services as a critical driver of economic participation.
Dimmy Kanyankole, Senior General Manager for East Africa at Bolt, said the findings reinforce the platform’s role in supporting livelihoods.
“As digital platforms continue to evolve, ride-hailing is increasingly becoming an important source of income and economic empowerment for many Kenyans. These findings reinforce the role that platform-based work plays in enabling people to earn flexibly while supporting their livelihoods. At Bolt, we are proud to be part of this transformation by creating opportunities for thousands of drivers to access reliable earning opportunities through our platform.”
The report further indicates that 54% of respondents have experienced a significant improvement in their economic well-being, demonstrating the tangible benefits of platform-based work for individuals and households.
However, the findings also highlight a significant gender gap within the sector. Women account for just 3% of ride-hailing drivers, compared to 97% who are male, pointing to a clear need for more inclusive policies and targeted interventions to increase female participation.
Soyinka Witness, Strategy Director at Ipsos, emphasized the broader implications of the findings.
“The study highlights the increasingly important role platform-based work is playing in Kenya’s evolving labour market. More than half of ride-hailing drivers rely on these platforms as their primary source of income, while many others use them to supplement existing earnings. Notably, over half reported a significant improvement in their livelihoods, underscoring the meaningful economic impact digital platforms can have.”
The findings arrive as Kenya continues to develop its regulatory posture on platform work, with questions around driver welfare, insurance, and taxation still actively debated between industry players, workers, and the government.
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