This archive report was first published on 5 January 2022.
January 5, 2022 - Bolt, the leading on-demand mobility platform in Africa, has taken a significant step in the fight against COVID-19 by launching a vaccination drive for its drivers in Kenya.
The initiative, which began in December, aims to increase vaccine uptake and protect the economy. Bolt has allocated 1,000 Johnson and Johnson vaccine doses for its drivers, who can receive the jab at various government-approved vaccination facilities in Nairobi.
According to Micah Kenneth, Regional Manager, Bolt EA, the company remains committed to supporting the government's efforts to accelerate vaccine uptake. 'We continue to strengthen our safety measures in the fight against COVID-19 and in providing a safer environment for passengers to move around and for drivers to continue operating their business in the current marketplace,' he said.
Abraham Kuria, a driver with Bolt, has urged his colleagues to get vaccinated, citing the importance of protecting themselves and their passengers. 'We interact with different people in the course of our job, and if this vaccine can provide some layer of protection against Coronavirus, then please let's take the opportunity presented to us by Bolt and the government to get vaccinated; for our own good,' he said.
Waititu Njuguna, a fully vaccinated driver, has also shared his vaccination certificate with Bolt, affirming his commitment to safety. 'I've shared my vaccination certificate to affirm that I am vaccinated and will safely transport passengers to their various destinations,' he said.
Bolt has been at the forefront of the fight against the spread of Coronavirus since March 2020, initiating several campaigns to manage the spread of the virus. The company has also launched the Bolt Protect ride category, which included installing over 800 protective screens in select taxis operating on the platform.
