Bolt celebrates 10 years in South Africa with €100M safety pledge and new licence
Bolt has marked a decade in South Africa by securing a key operating licence and announcing major investments. The ride-hailing giant confirmed its National Public Transport Regulator (NPTR) approval while pledging €100 million globally for safety upgrades over the next three years. Locally, the company has also committed R400,000 to support ten entrepreneurs through its 2025 Accelerator Programme. Since launching in South Africa, Bolt has grown into one of the country’s dominant ride-hailing platforms. Over the past ten years, it has onboarded 500,000 drivers and served 30 million unique passengers. The company has also invested R3 billion (€150 million) in the market, reinforcing its position as a leader in shared mobility.
The latest developments include a new operating licence from the NPTR, ensuring compliance with local transport regulations. Beyond regulatory milestones, Bolt is expanding its focus on safety, innovation, and driver welfare. The €100 million global safety fund, spread over 2024 to 2027, will introduce enhanced features for both drivers and riders.
In addition to infrastructure upgrades, Bolt is fostering entrepreneurship. Its 2025 Accelerator Programme will provide R400,000 in seed funding to ten South African startups, aligning with its goal of boosting economic participation through platform-based mobility. With a decade of operations behind it, Bolt is doubling down on its South African presence. The company’s investments in safety, driver support, and local entrepreneurship come as it cements its role in one of its fastest-growing markets. These moves follow a period of rapid expansion, with 500,000 drivers and 30 million passengers already using the platform.
