Uber Partners with Safaricom Business to Offer Free Data Access for Kenyan Drivers and Riders

In a significant stride toward technological accessibility and affordability, Uber has announced a partnership with Safaricom Business, Kenya’s leading telecommunications provider, to provide free mobile data for drivers and riders using the Uber app on Safaricom’s network. This pioneering move aims to alleviate one of the primary financial burdens on drivers-the cost of mobile data-while enhancing accessibility for riders across the nation. Effective immediately, Uber trips on the Safaricom network will incur no data charges for either drivers or passengers, simplifying access to Uber’s services for countless Kenyans.

Transforming Mobility with Heart

The partnership reflects one of Uber's core values: “building with heart.” Speaking at the announcement, an Uber spokesperson highlighted that understanding and addressing real-world user needs is key to Uber’s approach. By absorbing the cost of data, Uber is directly responding to feedback from Kenyan drivers, many of whom reported that mobile data expenses significantly impacted their earnings. This initiative means drivers can now retain more of their earnings, while customers enjoy seamless and uninterrupted access to the app, from ride-hailing to in-app safety features like the emergency response button, audio recording, and accident insurance.

Safaricom: Leveraging Technology for Daily Challenges

Safaricom echoed Uber’s sentiments, emphasizing that the collaboration is about leveraging technology to solve everyday problems. “At Safaricom, we see technology as a powerful tool to address societal issues and make daily life easier for Kenyans,” a Safaricom representative shared. “The partnership with Uber is not just about free data; it’s about improving the journey for thousands of Kenyans who rely on digital services daily.”

The Uber Experience: Now Data-Free

To use the new data-free service, passengers and drivers simply need to open their Uber app while on Safaricom’s network and request a trip. The service is automatically enabled, ensuring a smooth experience without the need for additional steps. Users are only advised to disable any active VPNs to ensure full functionality.

A Vision for Future Innovation

Both Uber and Safaricom recognize that this partnership is a foundation for future innovations. By investing in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, Uber and Safaricom are already looking at ways to further optimize their services in Kenya. The partnership illustrates how global technology platforms can be localized to meet specific needs, providing solutions that are as practical as they are impactful.

The Road Ahead

With Kenya’s digital landscape evolving rapidly, the partnership between Uber and Safaricom stands out as a model for future collaborations that aim to bridge technology and consumer needs. As these companies continue to explore and implement AI-driven efficiencies, they remain focused on a common goal: building accessible, impactful, and affordable solutions for Kenyans.

As Uber and Safaricom pave the way with this landmark initiative, they underscore a future where digital services are designed not just for functionality, but for purpose—serving communities and easing the challenges of everyday life.