Nairobi — More than half of cab drivers in Kenya depend on ride-hailing platforms as their main source of income, a new report by Bolt and Ipsos shows.

The survey found that 53 percent of drivers rely on ride-hailing as their primary income, while 47 percent use it as a secondary source, highlighting the sector's role in supplementing earnings.

About 28 percent of respondents cited financial independence as a key reason for joining, while 21 percent pointed to flexible working hours.

Ride-hailing accounts for about 20 percent of gig economy activity, second to e-commerce at 42 percent.

"As digital platforms evolve, ride-hailing is becoming an important source of income and economic empowerment," said Dimmy Kanyankole, Senior General Manager at Bolt East Africa.

The report also shows that 54 percent of drivers have seen improved livelihoods from the sector.

The findings come amid growing debate on the future of work and regulation of the gig economy in Kenya.