(Nairobi) – Safaricom has partnered with ride-hailing giant Uber to provide free mobile data for its Kenyan customers using the Uber and Uber Eats apps. The move, which zero-rates data costs for users, is expected to ease access to Uber’s services, especially its nine mobility products, and enhance the convenience for both customers and drivers.
This initiative follows a survey by Uber indicating that limited data access is one of the primary barriers preventing consumers from using its services. By removing this hurdle, the partnership is aimed at widening access and encouraging more Kenyans to engage with Uber’s platform without worrying about data costs.
The collaboration also benefits those using the Uber Eats app, as it will allow customers and restaurants to access the platform at no data cost, simplifying ordering and tracking deliveries. Imran Manji, Uber’s Head of East Africa, highlighted the importance of understanding the specific needs of the Kenyan market, saying, “As a global company that operates locally, it is essential for us to recognize local market nuances. This partnership with Safaricom helps bridge the data gap, allowing more Kenyans to access reliable and safe mobility.”
The initiative is expected to reduce costs for Uber drivers as well, eliminating the need to spend money on data while using the Uber app during trips.
To take advantage of the free data access, users are advised to turn off VPN blockers. While this may raise privacy concerns, particularly after recent claims that Safaricom has shared user data with law enforcement, Safaricom has dismissed these allegations, asserting that it only provides customer data if a court order mandates it.
According to a report by the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA), high internet costs have impacted broadband access in Kenya. In 2022, 57% of Kenyans faced barriers to broadband access due to cost, a figure that slightly improved to 52% in 2023. This Safaricom-Uber partnership is likely to address some of these challenges, potentially increasing internet access among Kenyans who need it for services like Uber and Uber Eats.
| Year | Percentage of Population Excluded from Broadband Access Due to Cost |
|---|---|
| 2022 | 57% |
| 2023 | 52% |