Kenya introduces new licence for Uber, Bolt, Glovo delivery apps

Kenya’s Communications Authority has announced a new ten‑year licence specifically for app‑based delivery platforms such as Uber Eats, Bolt Food and Glovo, effective 29 July 2026. Under the Courier Hailing Service Provider licence, qualifying platforms must pay a KES 5,000 (≈US$38.60) application fee, a KES 100,000 (≈US$773) licence fee, and an annual operating fee of either KES 100,000 or 0.4% of gross annual turnover, whichever is higher, plus a 0.5% universal service levy on turnover. Previously these firms operated under the same licence as traditional courier companies despite using app‑based matching rather than branch networks. The move recognises app‑delivery as a distinct business and creates a dedicated regulatory framework. For Nigerians, the development is relevant because Uber, Bolt, Glovo and similar services operate widely in cities like Lagos and Abuja. Nigerian regulators (NCC, CAC) may look to Kenya’s example when drafting rules for the growing platform economy, potentially introducing similar fees or compliance requirements that could affect service prices or driver earnings. Users should watch for announcements from Nigerian communications and commerce agencies; riders and drivers may want to check whether their favourite platforms comply with any new licensing rules that could influence costs or availability.

SOURCE: https://techcabal.com/2026/07/07/techcabal-daily-kenya-gives-banks-a-lifeline/