Popular ride-hailing company Bolt has announced the expansion of its rider identity verification system across South Africa, requiring users to confirm their identity with a South African ID number and a selfie.
The company said the move is aimed at improving accountability and strengthening trust between passengers and drivers, amid ongoing concerns about safety and verification in the ride-hailing sector.
The verification system forms part of Bolt's broader safety strategy, which includes in-app safety features, real-time trip monitoring and cooperation with authorities. The rollout will take place gradually across the country.
Sbu Ngwane, Senior General Manager at Bolt South Africa, said research conducted by Ipsos showed that safety and trust remain key factors influencing how South Africans choose transport services.
“Expanding rider verification is an important step in strengthening accountability on the platform, because accountability is enhanced when users are verified and identifiable,” said Ngwane.
