By Moses Adongo
US-based e- taxi, Uber, on Thursday launched a new product for Mombasa residents. Dubbed UberPOA, the new ride has moved to tap into the low-cost tuk-tuk which is a popular means of transport at the coastal town.
“Tuk-tuks are a popular choice across Kenya, and we are determined to launch localized products such as UberPoa that resonates with the local citizens,” revealed Uber East Africa’s General Manager, Mr. Loic Amado.
First launched in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, UberPOA will run alongside UberX and will provide the same procedures, like all other Uber services, to use. Users will be able to see details of the driver, plate number and contacts. This is in addition to access to in-app customer care services for any complaints, and inquiries.
Riders will be charged an average fare of Sh10, Sh15 per kilometer, Sh3 per minute and a minimum fare of Sh50. It will, however, be available for few routes in Mombasa with future expansion plans being considered. The services will be available in areas like Mombasa island, Nyali, Mkomani, Kongowea, Kisauni, and Bamburi.
The launch of UberPOA will offer safety and reliability to Mombasa residents who have often had related reservations with the tuk-tuk. Just like in other products, tuk-tuk drivers registering in the app will be required to provide their licensing documents including National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) certification.
The UberPOA drivers will also undergo training at the Uber centers thereby installing professionalism in a sector that has been marred by poor customers relations, accidents caused by untrained drivers as well as unregulated fares for riders.
The drivers will also have an opportunity to benefit from offers like negotiated loans, more significant profit margins, simple tracking services as well as money management skills.
