Uber has teamed up with Safaricom to offer zero-rate data access for Uber and Uber Eats apps across Kenya, therefore removing data costs associated with the technology and improving digital inclusion. This means Kenyans will have access to Uber’s ride-hailing and food delivery services literally at no cost in personal data, hence affordable and accessible to users across the country.
Why Free Data on Uber Matters for Kenyans
For many Kenyans, mobile data access is still a luxury that few can afford for frequent consumption of digital services. According to a report by GSMA, more than 50% of the population did not have broadband access in 2023. In a bid to close that gap, this partnership between Uber and Safaricom ensures that no data cost stands in the way of connecting people to the services of Uber with ease, particularly in those areas that are not well served.
This is quite a significant savings initiative for Uber’s drivers and delivery partners. With covered data costs, drivers and delivery partners of Uber can now use their apps on the go without having to use their own data, making life so much easier with a reduction in their daily expenses and further improving the reliability of such services.
Uber and Safaricom’s Partnership: What It Means for Users
As the leading telco in Kenya, Safaricom has zero-rated both the Uber and Uber Eats applications, such that one would not require any data bundles or even airtime to access these platforms. This deal will go a long way in helping Safaricom achieve its objective of increasing technology access and hence contribute toward economic development through digital inclusion.
Uber’s East Africa head, Imran Manji, remarked, “We need to be mindful of how people use technology in different markets. Making the Uber app lighter will benefit Kenyan users, where affordable mobile data remains a concern for many of our riders and eaters.” In turn, Uber is taking on one of the biggest pain points Kenyan users face in relation to its ride-hailing and delivery services, making products more useable for locals.
How to Access Free Data on Uber and Uber Eats
To enjoy data-free access on Safaricom’s network, users should:
- Disable VPNs: VPN blockers may interfere with zero-rating, so users should turn them off when accessing Uber or Uber Eats.
- Refresh Connection: Turning Airplane Mode on and off can refresh the device’s network, ensuring the zero-rating applies.
Data privacy has always been an issue with some users, especially when it was reported that Safaricom shared the data with law enforcement agencies. Safaricom has assured customers that it only discloses customer data if ordered by the courts, therefore trying to reassure users on the security of their private data.
Uber Expands Mobility Options for Kenyan Users
The zero-rating of Uber apps not only supports existing services but also encourages the adoption of Uber’s newer offerings, such as:
- Uber Electric Boda: An eco-friendly transportation option.
- Uber Comfort: Designed for a premium ride experience.
This range of options caters to diverse user preferences and makes Uber more integral to Kenya’s daily transportation network.
Bridging Kenya’s Digital Divide
This deal between Uber and Safaricom represents another significant milestone toward reducing Kenya’s digital divide. By offering access to basic services for free, this initiative supports Kenya’s National Digital Masterplan for the period 2022-2032, whose objective is to widen ICT access across rural and peri-urban areas. This is a model of how private companies can collaborate to advance digital inclusion, improve economic prospects, and increase the quality of life for under-resourced communities.
Safaricom zero-rating the Uber and Uber Eats applications will have a beneficial impact on both users and the wider economy. By eliminating the cost of data, Uber and Safaricom ensure that they work to realize an inclusive digital economy for all-incomes and geographies. As more such partnerships are considered in Kenya’s tech space, efforts like these may be just what will enable a digitally inclusive Kenya.