NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept 22 – Dubai-based ride-hailing company Yango is evaluating entry into Kenya’s digital taxi market through partnerships with local fleet operators.
The model would shift vehicle financing and driver management responsibilities from individual drivers to small and medium-sized enterprises.
Yango says the approach could help address financing and operational challenges facing drivers in Kenya’s ride-hailing industry, including disputes over fares, platform commissions and operating costs.
“When we think about entering a market like Kenya, we avoid the traditional, discount-driven race to the bottom that has characterized the sector for years,” said Shashi Shekhar Singh, Director of Operations for Yango Ride (Africa & Asia), during the Tech Safari Summit 2026 in Nairobi.
“Instead, our focus is on introducing a distinct Business-to-Business operational framework built entirely around empowering local Small and Medium Enterprise fleet partnerships.”
Under the proposed model, Yango would provide the technology platform while local fleet companies manage groups of drivers and vehicles.
The company said it currently works with more than 200 fleet partners across its international operations, with individual partners managing teams of about 10 to 12 people.
Yango plans to differentiate its service through newer vehicles, driver training and security features, while also exploring logistics, delivery and other digital services for local fleet partners.
The company has already established a presence in Kenya through its investment in BuuPass, a digital platform for intercity transport and ticketing.
Yango operates in more than 30 countries and says its Kenyan strategy would be adapted to local market conditions.
