NAIROBI, Kenya, July 29 – Ride-hailing company Uber is introducing new safety features to its motorcycle taxi service, Uber Boda, to address safety concerns in Kenya’s thriving two-wheeler transport sector.
The initiative brings GPS tracking, real-time trip monitoring, emergency response tools, and mandatory driver training to the boda boda space, a segment that remains both economically vital and accident-prone.
“Safety has always been at the core of everything we do at Uber, regardless of whether someone is riding in a car or on a motorcycle,” said Cassie Jaganyi, Head of Communications for Uber, Sub-Saharan Africa.
“We have introduced technology and training standards that set a new benchmark for motorcycle taxi safety in Kenya, ensuring both our drivers and riders can travel with confidence.”
Data from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) estimates that over 2.5 million motorcycles are registered across the country, with 1.8 million actively in use.
The boda boda sector generates roughly Sh660 billion annually, accounting for about 4.4% of the national GDP while serving as a key employer and backbone of last-mile transport.
Despite its economic role, the sector has long grappled with poor regulation, minimal training, and high accident rates. Uber’s strategy, which includes driver verification and background checks, aims to professionalise the industry by raising safety expectations.
Each Uber Boda ride is GPS-tracked, and users can share their trip details with friends or family in real time through the “Share My Trip” feature.
Riders also have access to an in-app emergency button that connects them directly with emergency services. Additionally, fare transparency via upfront pricing eliminates the common problem of haggling, a known friction point in traditional boda boda transport.
Uber’s partnership with Greenwheels Africa adds a sustainability component to the service.
The electric mobility provider supplies clean-energy bikes, coupled with rigorous driver training and regular vehicle inspections.
“At Greenwheels, our focus is on providing clean, efficient, and safe two-wheeled transport solutions. Our partnership with Uber allows us to combine our expertise in electric mobility with their technology and safety standards to offer an experience that is not only safer, but also more sustainable,” said Nabil Anjarwalla, CEO, Greenwheels Africa.
Uber says it is also leveraging data to evaluate and improve safety outcomes.
Ongoing tracking of incidents, rider experiences, and compliance levels enables the company to fine-tune safety protocols and collaborate with regulators on improving sector-wide standards.
