- MSME PS Susan Mang'eni made the announcement during the Bolt Award Accelerator ceremony on Wednesday.
- Mang'eni said the range of business ideas presented by the participants have the potential to reshape mobility and delivery services in Kenya.
Image: HANDOUT
Bolt has awarded its 10 drivers Sh289,519 each for showcasing smart mobility-related innovations.
The award happened at the Bolt Award Accelerator ceremony graced by MSME Principal Secretary Susan Mang'eni.
The PS presented the award on behalf of the Mobility Company.
“The Bolt Accelerator Programme is more than a corporate initiative. It represents our commitment to empowering the very people who are the backbone of our economy, our drivers, and couriers,” the PS said.
She said the participants demonstrated dedication and passion for their entrepreneurial endeavours from the initial application phase to the final pitch day.
Mang'eni said the range of business ideas presented by the participants was impressive as they showcased visionary concepts that have the potential to reshape mobility and delivery services in Kenya.
“To our top 10 winners, congratulations. Each of you will receive $2,000 to help turn your innovative ideas into reality. This seed funding is not just a reward, but a responsibility to drive change, create opportunities, and contribute to Kenya's growing gig economy,” the PS said.
“But let's not forget that every participant in this program is a winner. Whether you're receiving a monetary award today or not, each of you has gained invaluable knowledge and skills that will serve you well in your entrepreneurial journey,” she added.
Speaking during the awards, Bolt General Manager Linda Ndungu emphasized the crucial role the drivers play in the transport industry.
"Our driver and courier partners are at the very core of the Bolt ecosystem. They are not just service providers but are essential members of a broader community that keeps millions of people connected across Kenya and beyond, ” Ndungu said.
“To the winners, your dedication and creativity have rightfully earned you this recognition, along with €2,000 in seed funding. We are eager to see where your entrepreneurial journey leads from here.”
Participants who did not win cash awards were presented with certificates in recognition of their efforts to participate in the accelerator programme.
PS Mang'eni encouraged the winners to foster their entrepreneurial skills and exceptional potential for growth by continuing to pursue their dreams to make a positive change in their communities.
She noted that entrepreneurship is the driving force behind economic development and job creation in the country.
“These small businesses have the power to address local needs and create opportunities for others. Their success will not only benefit themselves but also the broader community," the PS said.
Present during the event were Transport PS Mohamed Daghar, representatives from the Nairobi County Government, and officials from Bolt led by Director of Public Policy Africa Kenneth Anye.
PS Mang'eni noted that the Bolt Accelerator Program aligns perfectly with Kenya's Vision 2030 economic development and job creation goals.
She said by fostering innovation at the grassroots level, the government is contributing to a future where technology and entrepreneurship will drive prosperity for all Kenyans.
In realisation of this, the PS said the government is committed to empowering drivers and fostering entrepreneurship in the transport sector by helping players navigate the challenges of bringing new ideas to life.
“We will continue to partner with the private sector to provide a conducive environment for the growth and development of the service industry. I encourage all of you to share your experiences and inspire others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams,” PS Mang'eni said.