As the festive season reaches its peak, Kenyans are increasingly choosing digital convenience over the steering wheel. Bolt, the leading ride-hailing platform, has reported an 8% surge in ride demand this December, marking its highest-usage month of 2025.
This uptick signals a significant shift in local behavior, as more citizens opt for ride-hailing services to navigate the risks of the holiday season, particularly the dangers associated with drinking and driving.
The surge in demand aligns with shifting public perceptions. According to recent consumer insights from Ipsos, a staggering 79% of Kenyans believe that ride-hailing services are instrumental in reducing drunk driving.
With the month packed with weddings, concerts, and late-night parties, the “predictable, trackable, and accessible” nature of app-based transport has become a preferred alternative to personal vehicles.
“December is consistently one of the busiest months on our platform, but this year’s 8% surge highlights an important behavioural shift,” says Dimmy Kanyankole, Senior General Manager for Bolt East Africa. “More Kenyans are consciously choosing not to drive after drinking… This has a meaningful impact not only on individual safety but also on the wider festive economy.”
This behavioral change arrives at a critical time for national road safety. Data released by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) in November 2025 revealed a sobering reality, with over 3,300 road fatalities recorded in the first nine months of the year.
A significant portion of these accidents are historically linked to impaired and night-time driving. By opting for digital mobility solutions, thousands of Kenyans are actively participating in a movement to lower these statistics during the year’s most high-risk period for road users.
Beyond safety, the “Bolt effect” is fueling Kenya’s seasonal economy. The hospitality and entertainment sectors, which thrive on night-time footfall, rely heavily on the availability of transport after hours.
Beyond safety, the increased demand is fueling Kenya’s seasonal economy. The hospitality and entertainment sectors, which thrive on night-time footfall, rely heavily on the availability of transport after hours. This surge ensures that restaurants, bars, and event organizers benefit from sustained seasonal spending as patrons move freely across cities well into the night.
Furthermore, the rise in demand creates a substantial economic opportunity for Bolt drivers. With traditional public transport options often limited during late-night hours, ride-hailing provides a vital income stream, positioning the platform as both a public safety mechanism and a significant economic enabler during the country’s busiest month.
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