Uber Kenya has released it’s first-ever Kenya Economic Impact Report, bringing to light the organization’s significant contributions to Kenya’s economy. Commissioned by Uber and conducted by Public First, the report highlights Uber’s influence across the mobility and delivery sectors, with a particular focus on its effects on drivers, youth, women, and the broader economy.
Speaking during the launch held on Tuesday in Nairobi, Uber East Africa General Manager Imran Manji noted that Uber is playing a critical role in Kenya’s economic landscape development by empowering drivers, delivery partners and enhancing accessibility to mobility and delivery services.
“The study also focuses on the sector’s potential for future growth, calling for continued collaboration with stakeholders, including government agencies, to maximize the benefits of ride-hailing platforms,” said Imran.
According to Uber Kenya, the ride-hailing sector is a key enabler of employment, offering flexible work options for drivers and delivery partners, further demonstrating how digital platforms like Uber contribute to improving transportation infrastructure and supporting small businesses through delivery services.
Based on the report, 57% of the Uber drivers and delivery people choose to drive or deliver with Uber or Uber Eats over other earning opportunities because it gives drivers and delivery partners on its platform the opportunity to work diligently.
General Manager for Uber Eats Kenya, Kiu Mbugua said that the Uber Eats platform has brought value to restaurants, retailers and merchants by expanding their reach to a wider consumer base.
“In addition, access to insights such as customer preferences, peak ordering times and popular items enable merchants to optimize their offering and tailor their business strategy to meet consumer needs,” Mbugua added.
She noted that the move has played a key role in boosting Kenya’s economy while supporting enterprise and small businesses by providing them with efficient and scalable delivery infrastructure.
The General Manager revealed that Uber Eats application has created Sh534 million in additional value for restaurants in Kenya by enabling them to leverage delivery as an additional revenue system and has created an estimated Sh2.7 billion additional value for the Kenyan tourism economy.
Technology data and public policy expert, Phillip Thigo said that online platforms such as uber are reducing barriers to entry to work by enabling new income streams for earners and platform-based ride-sharing and delivery apps sit at the heart of this opportunity, unlocking job creation, economic value and entrepreneurial innovation across the Kenyan economy.
Uber Kenya’s Economic Impact Report demonstrates the significant strides made in advancing economic opportunities, particularly for underserved groups, and paves the way for strategic partnerships aimed at unlocking the industry’s full potential.
By Rebecca Kibegwa
