A new Ride-Hailing Safety Index Report commissioned by Bolt and conducted by research firm Ipsos has revealed that 81% of Ghanaians consider ride-hailing safer than other transport modes.

The findings, unveiled at a press briefing in Accra, reflect growing public confidence in app-based transport and highlight how technology is reshaping urban mobility and passenger safety across major Ghanaian cities.

According to the study, which surveyed riders in Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, and Takoradi, Ghanaians primarily choose ride-hailing for its convenience (80%) and safety (45%). Nearly all respondents (92%) said they opt for ride-hailing when seeking safer or more reliable travel especially during late-night trips (70%), when walking feels unsafe (50%), or when they are tired or unwell (46%).

The research also showed that women make up 70% of ride-hailing users, with the largest user group aged 25 to 34, underscoring the role of digital mobility in promoting independent and flexible travel for young urban commuters.

Technology Driving Safety and Trust

The report identified key features that make passengers feel safer, including real-time GPS tracking (61%), driver verification (57%), and trip sharing (55%). Overall, 94% of riders said these in-app safety tools make them feel more secure when using ride-hailing services.

Interestingly, more than half of respondents (52%) believe ride-hailing helps reduce drunk driving by providing a safe, accessible alternative after social events.

Bolt and Experts React

“This report gives us valuable insight into how Ghanaians experience and perceive safety when using ride-hailing,” said Sandra Suzanne Buyole, Bolt’s Regional PR Manager for Ghana. “It reinforces that safety is not only a key reason people choose digital mobility, but also an area where continuous investment in technology, driver education, and collaboration with stakeholders can make a lasting difference.”

Witness Soyinka, Head of Strategy Africa at Ipsos, added: “The findings show that Ghanaians increasingly associate ride-hailing with reliability, traceability, and accountability  qualities essential for building long-term trust in mobility services. Safety features that enhance visibility and control are the main drivers of passenger confidence, especially among women and younger users.”

Driving Safer Mobility Futures

Bolt says the Ride-Hailing Safety Index Report will serve as a data-driven foundation for improving safety innovation, awareness, and collaboration with regulators and transport stakeholders to promote safer, more reliable mobility across Ghana.