Uber may temporarily suspend the accounts of users, drivers exposed to COVID‑19 in Kenya. The firm has also adjusted its systems to work according to the 7 pm to 5 am curfew set up by the Kenyan government in bid to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
“In accordance with the measures announced by President Uhuru Kenyatta on 25 March 2020 to prevent the spread of Coronavirus, ” the firm announced. “We are temporarily pausing our services in Nairobi and Mombasa between 6:00 pm and 5:00 am, until further notice. The health and safety of our community come first, and we will do our best to support drivers during these unprecedented times.” said an Uber spokesperson.
Uber Kenya has also introduced safety recommendations within the app to help raise awareness about suggested travel restrictions and social distancing with “travel only if necessary” in-app messaging.
Uber is providing safety information to drivers and riders in line with public health authorities guidance. This includes messages in-app, email and on social media channels.
The firm has also set up 24/7 support team working with public health authorities in their response to the pandemic. Working with them, Uber may temporarily suspend the accounts of customers and drivers confirmed to have contracted or been exposed to COVID‑19.
Drivers who are diagnosed with COVID-19 or placed in individual quarantine by a public health authority will receive financial assistance for a period of up to 14 days.
Uber has distributed hand sanitisers to drivers. Those who did not receive and who have purchased surface sanitizers will receive a one-time reimbursement to cover the expense.
