Hard-pressed Kenyan drivers defy Uber's algorithm, set their own fares

In Nairobi, taxi drivers like Judith Chepkwony are struggling due to a fierce price war among ride-hailing companies like Uber, Bolt, and local startups.

With fares driven down to unsustainable levels, drivers are increasingly setting their own higher rates, leading to tensions with companies like Uber, which discourages such practices.

Many drivers are using tools like the Zello app to collectively agree on higher fares, sometimes posting fare guides in their cars.

This fare-hiking is a response to rising living costs and loan repayments, but it frustrates customers who must now haggle for rides, undermining the convenience of ride-hailing services.