By Eddah Waithaka
Samuel Muteti never imagined his life could change so drastically in just two years. In October 2023, unemployed and searching for work, he walked into Greenwheels Africa’s yard and asked for a job.
Today, he rides an electric bike for Uber Boda, earns a steady income, and no longer fears confrontations with authorities.
“When I started, I had nothing,” says Muteti. “Now, I pay my bills, manage my bike, and work freely. Greenwheels and Uber Boda gave me a new life.”
His story mirrors that of Joseph Alulu, another Uber Boda rider who witnessed the evolution of electric bikes in Kenya.
“At first, we struggled with battery swaps and unreliable bikes,” Alulu recalls. “But Greenwheels kept improving the technology. Now, I ride with confidence.”
Uber Boda Elevates Safety in Kenya’s Boda Boda Sector
These personal successes come as Uber strengthens its commitment to rider and driver safety by integrating advanced features into Uber Boda, its motorcycle taxi service.
The platform now enhances user experience with real-time GPS tracking for every trip, provides emergency assistance through a convenient in-app button, ensures driver verification and professional training, prioritizes rider safety with the “Share My Trip” feature, and offers upfront pricing to eliminate fare disputes.
“Safety remains our top priority, whether in cars or on bikes,” says Cassie Jaganyi, Uber’s Head of Communications for Sub-Saharan Africa.
“We’re setting a new standard for motorcycle taxis in Kenya.”
The Rise of Boda Bodas in Kenya’s Economy
Motorcycle taxis, known as boda bodas, dominate Kenya’s transport sector. According to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), the country has 2.5 million registered motorcycles with 1.8 million active daily.
The industry contributes Sh660 billion annually 4.4% of Kenya’s GDP and supports millions in informal employment. Yet, safety concerns persist.
Uber Boda’s tech-driven approach aims to change that.
Greenwheels Africa Powers Sustainable Mobility
A key partner in this transformation is Greenwheels Africa, a leader in electric mobility. The company provides Uber Boda with eco-friendly bikes, reducing emissions while enhancing rider safety.
“Our mission is clean, efficient transport,” says Nabil Anjarwalla, CEO of Greenwheels Africa.
“With Uber, we’re making boda bodas safer and greener.” Drivers like Muteti and Alulu testify to the impact. “The new bikes are reliable, and the company supports us,” says Alulu.
“We are not just riders, we are building a better future.”
A Safer, Smarter Future for Urban Mobility
Uber continuously monitors safety through data analytics, incident tracking, and rider feedback, ensuring constant improvements.
The partnership with Greenwheels also underscores a shift toward sustainable transport solutions in Africa’s rapidly growing cities.
For Samuel Muteti, the journey is just beginning. “Before, I struggled. Now, I’m in control of my life,” he says. “That’s the power of safe, reliable work.”
Uber Boda is Uber’s two-wheel ride-hailing service, offering affordable, safe, and convenient transport across Kenya.
With Greenwheels Africa, it pioneers electric motorcycle taxis, combining innovation with sustainability.
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