Uber launches UberASSIST to help elderly and disabled riders in Nairobi

Uber in Kenya has announced the launch of a new product; UberASSIST an option that caters for senior riders and riders with access needs in the wake of World Disability Day last week.

Drivers driving on UberASSIST have attended dedicated information sessions and are better equipped to help senior riders and those with access needs to travel more effectively and more frequently thus enabling them to enjoy the freedom they deserve.

“Everyone deserves an opportunity to travel freely within their own city, and with UberASSIST, we are able to provide reliable transportation to senior citizens and riders with access needs,” says Loic Amando, General Manager of Uber in East Africa.

Uber recently hosted information sessions for over 400 driver-partners in partnership with Rescue by Flare. Uber drivers participated in a two-day information session that equipped them with the skills to better help senior riders and those with access needs. The company will continue to host further sessions for more drivers who are interested in driving on UberASSIST. UberASSIST will be the same price as an uberX, and riders will be notified of the fare upfront. Riders will The launch of UberASSIST also supports the company’s mission to provide safe, affordable and reliable transportation for everyone, everywhere.

When requesting a ride, special needs riders can contact their UberASSIST driver ahead of time to inform them of any unique requirements. Like all ride options Uber offers, UberASSIST riders will also be asked to rate every trip, this is an important tool to ensure drivers receive valuable feedback about the service they are providing to their passengers.

UberASSIST riders will need to be able to navigate a smartphone in order to request a vehicle or have someone close by to help them. UberASSIST vehicles do not have wheelchair accessible ramps, therefore, unfortunately, cannot accommodate motorised wheelchairs, but can cater for fold up wheelchairs.

How to use uberASSIST:

1. Riders will need to open the Uber app