Bolt Tanzania wrapped up Customer Service Week in style this month with a vibrant celebration at its Driver Engagement Centre (DEC) in Dar es Salaam, recognizing drivers and riders under the theme “Mission Is Possible”.
This was a day to celebrate how drivers help reduce friction in urban life, support commerce, and enable everyday journeys for Bolt riders whose work is integral to city productivity.
According to the World Bank’s Dar es Salaam Urban Transport Improvement Project (2023–2024), average in-vehicle travel times during peak hours along key corridors have declined significantly—from 91 minutes in 2016 to 67 minutes in 2023—for public transport users.
This improvement illustrates how better mobility infrastructure translates into time saved and greater economic access. Discussions with Rehema Athumani, the Customer Service Operations Team Lead at the DEC of Bolt revealed why the company considers its drivers as heroes.
From Job interviews, airport check-ins and meetings in high traffic locations, ride-hailing has come in handy to facilitate punctuality and scheduled opportunities that can improve careers or drive the economy.
In addition, hospital emergency cases, especially during rush hours can at times turn to hopeless arrivals if options such as “boda boda” drivers and “bajajis” are not considered..
The week-long customer service celebration at the Bolt office culminated with all visiting drivers being honoured with rewards and meals to recognize their role as the unsung heroes powering Tanzania’s urban mobility.
At the same time, riders visiting the DEC enjoyed surprise activations, from promo codes and branded gifts to golden tickets, reinforcing Bolt’s pledge to make every journey smootherThe celebrations extended beyond the centre with drivers having Bolt sponsored meals from a fast food outlet.
Cheer teams, music, and games also drew in more drivers, creating shareable moments that blended joy with community pride.
“The best reward I got was the KFC token to enjoy some chicken and free lunch today, we have had great offers that made us feel truly celebrated”, said one of the drivers. Speaking during the close of the celebrations, Dimmy Kanyankole, General Manager of Bolt Tanzania & Kenya, said: “Drivers are the true champions who keep our cities moving, and riders are the community we exist to serve. This week has been about saying thank you to both groups for their trust, loyalty, and partnership.”The initiative reaffirmed Bolt’s drive to put people at the heart of mobility, ensuring that every ride, every driver, and every rider is part of a bigger mission to build thriving and connected cities.-ENDS-
