Bolt secures South African licence after R3 billion investment

Bolt has secured its operating licence from South Africa’s National Public Transport Regulator (NPTR). The move strengthens its position in one of the company’s largest and fastest-growing markets. Over the past decade, Bolt has invested R3 billion (€150 million) in the country. Since launching in South Africa, Bolt has onboarded 500,000 drivers and served 30 million passengers. The company now plans to deepen its focus on safety, innovation, and driver support over the next three years.

Globally, Bolt has committed €100 million between 2024 and 2027 to improve safety features. In South Africa, it is expanding vehicle access and driver earnings through partnerships like the Bajaj project and MyNextCar. These initiatives aim to make mobility more affordable and sustainable for drivers.

In 2025, Bolt also provided over R400,000 in seed funding to ten local entrepreneurs through its Accelerator Programme. The investment reflects the company’s belief in platform-based mobility as a driver of economic participation. Bolt’s continued expansion in South Africa follows a decade of significant investment. With a renewed operating licence and ongoing projects, the company is set to further strengthen its presence. The focus remains on safety, driver support, and economic growth in the region.