Since 2014, the on demand ‘taxi’ hailing market in Africa, has really evolved.
Take Kenya for instance, whose market was first penetrated by American multinational transportation network company; Uber. It has since seen a number of homegrown(Little by Safaricom) and international (Bolt, formerly known Taxify) ride hailing service providers, also set up shop.
Initially, Uber had come into the market with offerings like UberX, UberBlack and even UberChopper for a little while from their international markets, but the company quickly realized that those services, would not work in Kenya and promptly put plans in motion, to localise their services.
This decision, also led to changes in their pricing as well (partly inspired by moves by their competition) and finding way to creatively introduce new services.
As at the time of writing this article, Uber is now fully acclimatized with the Kenyan market, as it features services like UberChapchap and UberBoda, which are aptly suited for Kenya.
Uber’s latest addition to its range of services, is a new and different method to order a ride. Uber had earlier on, introduced a lite app which consumes less data, in turn making their service all the more attractive to consumers, especially those of us who are data conscious.
Sadly at the time, while its competition; Little, introduced ordering rides via their website and also via a USSD code, Uber still had no services catering to users who do not have smartphones.
It’s new offering however, changes this and sort of levels out the playing field.
With Uber, you can now order a ride, via a phone call. What’s even better, is that the phone call is absolutely free and available to all service providers within Kenya.
To order an Uber via a phone call, simply:
- Dial 0800 722 000on your phone.
- Once done, you will be connected to a customer care representative who will request for your identification details.
- Share your pickup point and destination with the representative
- The representative will then inform you of the estimated fare price.
- Once you accept the fare, your trip will be confirmed.
- Next, you will receive an SMS with the driver’s details; the name, phone number and car registration.
- You will then be required to meet the driver at the stated pickup point
It is important to note that if you book your trip with this method, the expected payment option is cash.
You can however, agree with the designated driver and pay via M-PESA, probably with additional “withdrawal fees” as well, also know as ‘ya kutoa’.
The service is currently only available within Nairobi.
On the bright side, anyone can request an Uber through this method, as you do not require an Uber account.
The service is available 24/7.
Founded in March 2009, Uber has risen to employ over 22,000 individuals all over the world.
According to the Wallstreet Journal, Uber has an estimated net worth of $120 billion as at 2019.
Oh, and you are welcome.
