Top drivers in Kenya’s ride-hailing sector are raking in earnings that rival and even surpass many white-collar jobs, underlining the growing appeal of the gig economy.
A recent case study by Bolt, one of the leading ride-hailing companies in the country, revealed that its top 50 drivers earned an average of Sh1.28 million between January and June 2025, translating to about Sh213,000 per month.
The company said the earnings include gross trip income, bonuses and incentives.
In a statement on Wednesday, Bolt said data show that disciplined drivers who consistently maintain high ratings, actively accept ride requests and complete a high volume of trips secured the above-average incomes.
One top driver said the opportunity had enabled him to comfortably provide for his family and achieve financial independence, citing the flexibility of setting his own working hours.
“The flexibility to work on my own schedule while achieving real financial independence is something I truly value,” he said.
While the data is drawn from Bolt’s case study, the findings are relatable to drivers signed to competing platforms, where similar performance trends apply.
Bolt Kenya General Manager Dimmy Kanyankole said the performance underscores the opportunities available in the industry.
“Our primary focus is on creating meaningful economic opportunities for our driver partners. We remain committed to improving the driver experience and building a sustainable future for everyone in the gig economy,” he said, pointing out that rolling out initiatives such as advanced safety features, driver wellness programmes and reward schemes remain a priority.
The outlook for the industry is even more promising.
Data from Statista projects that Kenya’s ride-hailing market revenue will reach $56.69 million (Sh7.3 billion) in 2025, growing annually at 4.79 per cent to hit $71.61 million (Sh9.2 billion) by 2030.
The number of users is expected to rise to 9.03 million by 2030, with penetration increasing from 13.9 per cent in 2025 to 14.3 per cent by the end of the decade.
The average revenue per user is forecast at $7.07 (Sh912).
These figures suggest that ride-hailing is no longer just a stop-gap job for many Kenyans but a fulltime career that’s unlocking real financial opportunities across the country.
For those willing to put in the effort and consistency, it has become a pathway to financial independence and a sustainable livelihood in the gig economy.
by EMMANUEL WANJALA
