Kenyans can now use the Uber app for free thanks to a partnership between Uber and Safaricom, which offers free mobile data for downloads and usage.
Safaricom has made the Uber and Uber Eats apps free for drivers, delivery partners, riders, and merchants, with Uber covering the data costs.
According to an Uber survey, one of the barriers for consumers accessing mobility products such as Uber Boda is the lack of sufficient access to mobile data.
“As a global company that operates locally, it is important to us to understand local nuances of the market we live and operate in. Through this partnership with Safaricom, we can help bridge the gap in accessing data for many Kenyans, by which they will be able to access reliable and safe mobility. For drivers, this represents savings as they will not need to spend money on mobile data while driving on the Uber app,” remarked Imran Manji, Head of East Africa, Uber.
Despite significant progress in internet access, Kenya still faces a digital divide, particularly in rural areas, but the partnership between Uber and Safaricom aims to enhance connectivity and mobility options for the youth.
“This partnership is part of our goal to provide our customers with innovative solutions that allow them to access vital services even when they do not have data bundles or airtime through collaboration with organisations such as Uber to extend free access of their services to customers,” said Peter Ndegwa, Chief Executive Officer, Safaricom PLC.
To access the free data, users should disable VPN blockers and toggle Airplane Mode on and off on their phones.
Since its launch in Kenya nearly a decade ago, Uber has rolled out over nine products, including Uber Electric Boda, Uber Boda, Uber Reserve, and Uber Comfort, to integrate into consumers’ daily mobility.
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