TIFA ride-hailing survey: 63% of Kenyans reject govt control of fares

A new TIFA Research survey reveals that 63 percent of ride-hailing users in Nairobi oppose government regulation of fares for services like Bolt, Uber, Little Cab, and Faras. Instead, 63 to 65 percent of respondents across all demographic groups believe fares should be determined by market forces. Only 4 percent were undecided. The opposition to regulation comes as the government considers a minimum-fare policy aimed at increasing drivers' earnings.

However, 59 percent of users view the proposed policy negatively, with the strongest opposition coming from users aged 35 and above. While supporters argue drivers deserve better pay, many passengers prioritize affordability and are concerned higher fares could make rides more expensive. The survey finds 81 percent of respondents are worried about rising prices in daily life, including fuel, groceries, rent, and transport.

This economic pressure makes passengers particularly sensitive to any increase in ride-hailing fares. Only 18 percent said they would continue using ride-hailing services as usual if fares significantly increased. The survey suggests a balance must be struck between protecting drivers' earnings and maintaining affordable ride-hailing services, a topic increasingly debated in Kenya's urban transportation sector.