• Uber and Safaricom have partnered to zero-rate the Uber app, offering free data for drivers, riders, and delivery agents
• This initiative aims to improve access to mobility services, especially for people in rural areas and the youth who face internet access challenges
• Users can access the free data by disabling VPN blockers and toggling Airplane Mode on and off before using the Uber app

Muyela Roberto is a business journalist at TUKO.co.ke with over 9 years of experience in the digital media, offering deep insights into Kenyan and global economic trends.

Kenyans will now start having free access to the Uber app thanks to a partnership between Uber and Safaricom. This deal is set to provide free mobile data, enabling easier app downloads and usage.

Uber and Safaricom’s partnership for free mobile data access

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Safaricom has zero-rated the app to allow free use by drivers and delivery partners on the Uber and Uber Eats apps, as well as riders, with Uber covering the cost.

The partnership also allows consumers and merchants on the Uber Eats platform across the country to access free data while using the Uber Eats app.

“As a global company that operates locally, it’s important for us to understand the local nuances of the market in which we live and operate. Through this partnership with Safaricom, we can help bridge the data access gap for many Kenyans, enabling them to access reliable and safe mobility. For drivers, this translates to savings since they won’t need to spend money on mobile data,” said Imran Manji, Head of East Africa, Uber.

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According to an Uber survey, one of the main barriers for consumers accessing mobility services, such as Uber Boda, is insufficient access to mobile data.

While Kenya has made significant strides in internet pene*tration, a digital divide still exists, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas.

According to the Kenya National Digital Masterplan 2022-2032, deepening ICT access is essential to accelerating economic growth.

Expanding affordable mobility

Uber’s partnership with Safaricom to provide free data for Kenyans, particularly for youth facing internet access challenges, is expected to enhance access to reliable, affordable, and safer mobility options.

“This partnership aligns with our goal of offering customers innovative solutions that enable them to access vital services even without data bundles or airtime. By collaborating with organizations like Uber, we can extend free access to their services for our customers,” stated Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa.

To access the free data, users should ensure any VPN blockers on their phones are turned off. Drivers and riders are advised to toggle Airplane Mode on and off before using the free data.

Since Uber launched in Kenya nearly ten years ago, the company has introduced over nine products, including Uber Electric Boda, Uber Boda, Uber Reserve, and Uber Comfort, which launched earlier this year..

Source: TUKO.co.ke