Uber Introduces New Priority Service Amidst Driver Protests

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Ride-hailing platform Uber has unveiled a new service called ChapChap Priority, which allows customers to pay an additional Ksh110 per trip to prioritize their match with a driver.

The service will be activated only during peak demand periods, according to Imran Manji, Uber’s head of East Africa.

Mr Manji explained that the pricing update is aimed at ensuring drivers can maximize their earnings while maintaining affordable fares for riders.

“Uber drivers have the option to opt in to earn the additional amount on top of the regular fare,” he added.

The introduction of ChapChap Priority comes in the wake of recent protests by local digital taxi drivers who have expressed dissatisfaction with decreasing per-kilometer rates amidst rising fuel prices and the cost of living.

These grievances have led to instances of drivers charging higher fees than those listed by the platforms and reports of passenger harassment.

To address these concerns, Uber has implemented several measures, including the ChapChap Priority service and a 10% increase in the base fare to Ksh.220.

“We also have an ongoing driver rewards program and are working to reduce driver operating costs through partnerships with vehicle maintenance companies,” Manji stated.

Kenya’s digital taxi services market is currently dominated by Uber, Faras, Little Cab, Bolt, and Yego. Last week, Faras announced that it had increased its minimum ride cost to Ksh.240.

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