Uber, the peer-to-peer ridesharing company, has finally launched its boda-boda service in Nairobi.
The service which is referred to as uberBODA, will enable commuters to hire a boda-boda using the Uber platform app just as it is with the cab.
According to Pierre-Dimitri Gore-Coty, Uber Vice President for Europe, Middle East and Africa, the company is keen on creating technology that meets the needs of the market.
“We are excited about the launch of uberBODA in Nairobi. While Uber has grown into a global brand, we understand the importance of building technology to meet the needs of the local market. We will continue to invest our technology in products like uberBODA that seek to support local businesses while providing another safe, reliable and convenient choice for passengers,” he said assuring the public that the experience will be the same as with the Uber cabs, the only difference being that one will be on a motorcycle.
“Passengers will still be able to see all their driver-partners details, such as their name, photo, and license plate number. Passengers can also see whether others have had a good experience with the uberBODA driver and they will be able to contact each other via the app if there is any confusion around pick-up details,” he added.
In order to request for an UberBODA one will only have to open the Uber app and select UberBODA which has a base fare of Sh55, minimum fare of Sh60 and Sh14 per kilometre. Under this new service, the riders will be able to use uberBODA in all neighbourhoods of Nairobi except at the Central Business District (CBD) where boda-boda operations have been banned by the County Government.
Uber has also assured that all uberBODA driver-partners will undergo a screening process and be required to have all the requirements. In addition, the driver-partners will also attend an information session that will focus on the app and road safety tips. Drivers will also be provided with helmets for themselves and the passengers as well as reflective jackets. The launch follows the earlier launch of the same service in Kampala, Uganda. UberBODA will be competing against SafeBoda and Taxify’s BODA which recently launched in the country.
