Uber has unveiled its inaugural Kenya Economic Impact Report, revealing the app’s contribution of an estimated Kshs 14.1 billion to the country’s economy in 2023.
Conducted by Public First and commissioned by Uber, the report outlines the app’s role in supporting local businesses, drivers, delivery people, and consumers through its mobility and delivery services.
The report highlights Uber’s significant impact across various sectors, including tourism and hospitality.
The Uber Eats app alone generated Kshs 534 million in additional value for restaurants by providing a scalable delivery platform.
Similarly, Uber’s ride-hailing services contributed an estimated Kshs 2.7 billion to the tourism industry, supporting millions of tourist journeys.
“This report showcases the billions in economic value Uber creates annually in Kenya by connecting people, boosting local businesses, and offering flexible earning opportunities to drivers and delivery partners,” said Imran Manji, Uber’s Head of East Africa.
He noted that, looking ahead, Uber remains committed to supporting Kenya’s economic priorities and fostering innovative growth.
The report sheds light on Uber’s impact on drivers and delivery partners, offering them flexibility and financial independence.
According to the key findings in the report, 57% of drivers and delivery people chose Uber over other earning opportunities for its flexibility, 87% reported using their Uber earnings to cover essential bills, while 65% cited rising costs of living as their motivation for joining the platform and, many drivers shared personal success stories, including a Kiambu resident who funded his son’s high school education through earnings from Uber.
Uber has also bolstered local communities by supporting businesses during challenging economic times.
In 2023, the app contributed Kshs 167 million to Kenya’s nighttime economy, helping Kenyans access bars, clubs, and restaurants safely and conveniently.
Kui Mbugua, General Manager for Uber Eats Kenya, emphasized the platform’s role in helping merchants reach wider audiences.
“Uber Eats has enabled restaurants and retailers to expand their reach, optimize their offerings, and tailor their strategies to meet customer needs. This support has not only boosted the local economy but also empowered small businesses with a robust delivery infrastructure,” she said
The report highlights consumer preferences for Uber’s convenience, speed, and safety features. Notable findings on this are that, 67% of Uber Eats users cited convenience as the primary reason for using the app, 96% of female riders listed safety as a key factor, with many praising the ability to share trip details with family, and over 80% of riders used the app for work-related travel, and 53% relied on it for airport transfers.
The findings position Uber as a key player in Kenya’s innovation and economic growth. By creating flexible earning opportunities, supporting local businesses, and enhancing consumer access to essential services, Uber is shaping Kenya’s economic landscape.
“Our goal is to help Kenyans go anywhere and get anything while enabling sustainable earning opportunities. This report reflects Uber’s commitment to contributing positively to Kenya’s economy and society.” Manji stated
Uber plans to build on the report’s insights to strengthen its impact in Kenya, driving growth and innovation in the years ahead.