Kenyan Taxi Apps Face Backlash: Drivers Adding Extra Fees to Rides

A video surfaced online that has since gone viral whereby a Taxi driver who uses a taxi App had his transport fare charge printed out at the back of the front seats. The fare was 1.5 times higher than the amount suggested on the taxi app.

When confronted by the passengers, the taxi driver defended his actions as just considering that he brought it to their attention early on before the journey began. The passengers eventually agreed to the charges but aired out their frustrations.

This led to more taxi drivers airing out their reasons for why they have had to create their charge sheets besides having the taxi apps have a different fixed amount. Calling in on radio stations and posting videos on social media expressing their frustrations.

In one of the radio shows, a cab driver called in to explain why more taxi drivers are opting to create their own charge sheets. He said that their main reason was due to the commission cost from both the taxi apps and the government.

The driver broke down that the app takes around 25% while the government takes 18%. They have to consider fuel to the destination and once all those are deducted, it leaves them with penny change that can barely service the vehicle.

He added that the Apps do not give the driver the pricing or the destination when a customer requests a ride which is an inconvenience to them. According to him, the charge sheet makes it more reasonable.

It is not certain whether this will become the new normal for all taxi drivers. Online users have started discussing about a possible boycott of the taxi apps to raise awareness. As the country navigates challenges in transport, the expanding real estate market remains a bright spot, showcasing the resilience and progress within Kenya’s economy.