Majority Reject Government Plan to Regulate Uber and Bolt Fares, TIFA Survey Shows

A recent survey by TIFA Research indicates strong resistance among ride-hailing users to the government's proposed minimum fare framework for services like Uber, Bolt, Little Cab, and Faras.

The poll, conducted in Nairobi County between July 17 and 21, 2026, involved 733 respondents aged 18 and above. It found that 63% of users favor market-driven pricing over government intervention, while only 33% support fare regulation.

Public Concerns Over Fare Regulation

Despite the government's intention to improve drivers' earnings through a minimum fare policy, 59% of respondents opposed the plan. Opposition was especially pronounced among those aged 35 and above, with many expressing concerns that regulated minimum fares would raise transport costs and reduce affordability.

The survey highlighted that 36% of participants believe fares should be determined by market forces, and an equal percentage felt the proposed regulation would increase ride costs. A smaller group, 2%, suggested the government should instead focus on lowering fuel prices.

Supporters' Views

Among the minority who favor the regulation, 16% cited the need for better driver earnings, 12% believed government oversight is necessary, and 10% felt higher fares could be justified by improved service quality.

Awareness and Potential Impact

Awareness of the minimum fare proposal remains low, with only 27% of respondents having heard of it. Concerns about the policy's effects include increased passenger costs (42%), higher fares (10%), financial strain (3%), and reduced discounts (2%). Some respondents anticipate shifts to alternative transport modes, with 12% expecting passengers to use other options more frequently and 5% predicting reduced ride-hailing usage.

The survey also explored how fare increases might alter commuter behavior. If fares rise significantly, 44% said they would opt for matatus more often, 11% would reduce ride-hailing usage, and another 11% would switch to cheaper ride-hailing alternatives. Only 18% indicated they would maintain their current usage.

Usage Patterns

Ride-hailing services are primarily used for daily commuting and social or leisure activities, each accounting for 47% of usage. Business travel (36%) and shopping or errands (34%) also represent significant purposes.

Survey Demographics

• Gender: 51% men, 49% women
• Age groups: 27% aged 18-24, 20% aged 25-34, remainder 35 and above
• Occupations: 45% self-employed/business owners, 24% formally employed, 14% informally employed, 13% students, others unemployed

The survey was conducted through face-to-face interviews primarily in Swahili and English, with a margin of error of ±2.18%.

The findings suggest that Nairobi's ride-hailing users prioritize affordability and market competition over government-imposed fare controls.