Ride-hailing giant Bolt is set to transform Mombasa’s public market spaces into operational hubs for riders, under a new partnership with the County Government designed to expand youth employment and boost safety.

The deal was unveiled when Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir hosted a team from Bolt to discuss how to scale up the firm’s operations and create more jobs for the youth in Mombasa.

Currently, Bolt is providing livelihoods for more than 1,000 riders across the county.

By using public markets as hubs, Bolt seeks to make it easier for more youth to join the platform, access decent work, and take part meaningfully in the fast-growing digital and gig economy.

Governor Nassir reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering partnerships in the private sector that deliver inclusive growth and pathways for empowerment.

“Our young people are the backbone of Mombasa’s future. By working with innovative partners like Bolt, we are creating real opportunities for them to earn a living, support their families, and contribute to our economy,” said Nassir.

The Governor added: “We are also keen on enhancing safety and professionalism in the sector through the recognition of prior learning and licensing of riders.”

A key feature of the agreement will be the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) framework, which acknowledges the skills and experience of riders already working in the sector.

This move is expected to enhance safety and service standards while strengthening public confidence in the ride-hailing industry.

Bolt, on its part, emphasised Mombasa’s strategic role as a growing urban and economic hub, while pledging to work closely with the coastal county to expand rider integration.

“Bolt recognises Mombasa’s pivotal role as a dynamic business and economic hub and commends the county government for its forward-looking commitment to development,” said Bolt Food Kenya General Manager Edgar Kitur.

Kitur added: “We are pleased to partner with the county in expanding rider integration and advancing a safe, well-regulated environment that supports the sustainable growth of the mobility sector.”

This partnership is part of Nassir’s broader agenda to unlock jobs for young people, support innovation, and create an enabling environment for private sector investment as Mombasa positions itself as a competitive, inclusive economy.