Prime
Uber, online taxi firm launched in Kampala
A passenger uses the Uber app to order for a taxi to his destination. The transport facility launched recently in Uganda. Courtesy Photo
The local taxi operators are going to face competition given the entrance of global online taxi firm, Uber, a technology company that connects riders and drivers at the touch of a button.
The firm is already operating in 462 cities across 71 countries. The Uber platform has revolutionised the way transport moves across the countries it is operating.
A statement issued by Uber said the innovative technology platform is excited to launch its ride-sharing platform to the people of Kampala.
“The World Bank forecasts that the Ugandan economy is growing at a positive and upward trajectory. This is owing to targeting development of Uganda’s infrastructure and intensified investment in the private sector. The World Bank also notes that Uganda is one of the world’s youngest populations, with 700,000 new people entering the workforce each year. With its people, energy, innovation, entrepreneurial and rapidly growing economy, Kampala is an exciting place for Uber to bring its services,” the statement reads in part.
Speaking during the official launch in Kampala on Thursday, Alon Lits, general manager Uber Sub Saharan African said they were inspired by the city’s rapidly developing infrastructure and spirit of entrepreneurship and look forward to giving people in the city an affordable, easy and flexible choice to move around the city safely and reliably.
“At Uber, we are proud to connect millions of global citizens every to affordable and reliable rides. By offering a friendly and reliable complement to existing transport options, we can help improve urban mobility in Kampala. We are mindful of the city’s current traffic congestion, and we aim to be part of the solution in improving it, while creating new, fruitful opportunities for drivers. Ultimately, we hope to reduce the strain on the city’s roads, and minimise the environmental impact of traffic congestion that is part of a growing economy,” he said.
Bertrand Nembot, the Uber operations and logistics manager Uber provides a platform to connect drivers with riders in real time, at the touch of a button. “Whether you’re going to work or going out with friends, Uber provides an affordable, safe and reliable way to get across the city. Kampala is a growing city in the heart of Uganda, a country with a fast-growing economy,” he said
He explained that one has to download the uber mobile app which connects drivers with passengers directly, instead of going through the hustle of physically locating a taxi. The app also uses GPS, to pick up your location and connect you (passenger) to the nearest driver.
Utility
Uber fare prices (Kampala)
USh1 300 Base Fare + USh 900 per kilometer + USh 200 per minute
Minimum Fare: USh 5 000
Cancellation Fee: USh 5 000
