Ride-hailing drivers in Kenya have announced a nationwide strike starting Monday. The online taxi drivers have already halted all app-related services including passenger transport and online deliveries.
The taxi operators have warned of action against any colleagues who continue operations.
This decision followed a well-attended meeting in Nairobi at the Green Park bus terminus. Drivers plan to converge in the Nairobi CBD, with similar actions expected in other regions. Their main grievance is poor payment by eTaxi apps like Faras, Bolt Kenya, Little Cab Kenya, and Uber. Kenyans reliant on these services are advised to seek alternative transport on Monday.
This is not the first time taxi drivers have taken industrial action. In 2022, they protested over commissions charged on ride fees, seeking a reduction. New regulations capping the commission at 18% were implemented, but grievances over low wages and poor working conditions persist, reminiscent of a similar strike in Nairobi in 2019.
The strike comes amid a tough economic climate in Kenya. Monday’s action precedes nationwide protests by Gen-Z scheduled for Tuesday.
