By Eddah Waithaka
Uber has released its inaugural Kenya Economic Impact Report, revealing that the Uber app generated approximately KSh 14.1 billion in revenue for the national economy. The report, commissioned by Uber and carried out by Public First, highlights the app’s influence on local businesses, drivers, delivery personnel, and consumers within its mobility and delivery sectors during 2023.
“This report breaks down the billions of shillings in economic value that Uber helps create annually in Kenya into its constituent parts: giving Kenyans convenient and safe access to transportation, food, grocery and retail items, helping local restaurants find customers during challenging economic times, and giving drivers and delivery people a flexible and independent earning opportunity,” says Imran Manji, Head of East Africa, Uber.
“This report will serve as a benchmark for the coming years, as we continue to find ways to support Kenya’s priorities and be a valuable partner for economic and innovative growth.”
Kui Mbugua, General Manager for Uber Eats Kenya commented: “Through the Uber Eats platform, we have brought value to restaurants, retailers and merchants by expanding their reach to a wider customer
base. In addition, access to insights such as customer preferences, peak ordering times and popular items enables merchants to optimise their offering and tailor their business strategy to meet customer
needs. This has helped to boost the local economy while supporting enterprise and small businesses by providing them with an efficient and scalable delivery infrastructure.”
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Uber’s impact on drivers and delivery people
Other findings from the report include Uber’s impact on drivers and delivery people, particularly their preference for the platform over other earning opportunities. Notably, 57% of drivers and delivery personnel cited the desire to be their own boss as a key reason for choosing to work with Uber and Uber Eats.
The Uber app provides drivers and delivery partners with a critical opportunity to earn more money and improve their financial situation on flexible and independent terms. Many adults in Kenya are currently feeling financial pressures, with 48% saying they feel worse off or no better off now compared to a year ago.
87% of drivers and delivery partners stated that they have used earnings made from using the Uber app to cover the cost of their bills.
65% of drivers and delivery partners reported that the rising costs of goods and services were a key reason why they chose to start using the platform.
Uber’s impact on consumers:
Further, Uber’s influence extends beyond enhancing local economies and consumer experiences; it also creates a vibrant ecosystem for entrepreneurship and innovation. By providing a platform that connects drivers, delivery partners, and local businesses, Uber fosters new opportunities for individuals and startups alike.
For instance, many local restaurants and small shops have leveraged the Uber Eats platform to reach a wider audience, dramatically increasing their sales and visibility. In 2023 alone, partnerships through Uber Eats helped over 1,000 local eateries in Kenya thrive, showcasing how the app not only amplifies customer access but also empowers local entrepreneurs to adapt in an ever-evolving market landscape.
According to the report, 67% of Uber Eats users in Kenya listed “convenience” as the most important reason why they opted to use a food delivery app. Users also highlighted “quick delivery times” (64%) and “good service” (56%). Over 36% of Kenyan adults have used the Uber Eats app to order food or essential
items in 2023.
