Takura Malaba, the Regional Manager of East and Southern Africa for Bolt, highlights the ongoing commitment to invest in new products, features, and a dedicated in-house safety team. These endeavors aim to enhance the overall safety ecosystem of the Bolt app.

On July 17, 2023, Bolt drivers, along with Uber and Indrive, halted operations, citing concerns about low pay and safety issues. The resultant industrial action led to numerous drivers switching off their engines, leaving passengers stranded. Instances of robbery attempts prompted drivers in South Africa to form self-defense groups, despite the presence of the SOS Emergency button in the app. This button requires immediate attention, yet drivers find it necessary to rely on additional self-protection measures.

In the aftermath of the tragic shooting of three drivers in Port Harcourt two months ago, ride-hailing drivers in Nigeria advocate for the use of National Identification Numbers to verify passengers. These drivers have also fallen victim to reported cases of car snatching.

In a parallel incident, media personality Ciku Muiruri in Kenya reported the kidnapping of her daughter and a friend after booking a Bolt ride. The kidnappers demanded KSh 500,000 ($3,580) for their release.

Prior to these events, safety features on the e-hailing app included an in-app emergency and assist button, dedicated customer support, strict rider management, driving time limits, location sharing, and women-only rides.