Uber Eats GM on expanding non-food deliveries across Africa

In a bid to cater to the evolving e-commerce landscape in Africa, Uber Eats is embarking on a journey to expand its offerings beyond traditional food deliveries. Nakampe Molewa, General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa at Uber Eats, discussed the rationale behind this strategic shift and the growth opportunities it presents in an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa. The focus on diversifying its services comes as a response to the rising demand for convenience among consumers in the region. The decision to venture into non-food deliveries stems from Uber Eats' vision of becoming a one-stop destination for various products akin to a "mall of Africa." Molewa highlighted the vast potential in sectors such as groceries and pharmacy, emphasizing the significance of last-mile delivery in meeting the needs of consumers across the continent. With a market estimated at $20 billion to $25 billion for groceries alone, the expansion into non-food deliveries represents a lucrative opportunity for Uber Eats. Building strong local partnerships is key to the success of this expansion strategy. Molewa underscored the importance of collaborating with established players in each country to navigate the complexities of different markets effectively. By forging alliances with prominent retailers like Carrefour, Chandarana, and QuickMark, Uber Eats aims to enhance its delivery network and cater to a diverse range of consumer needs. In assessing consumer trends in the Kenyan market, Molewa identified a favorable environment for non-food deliveries driven by factors such as the growth in disposable income, urbanization rates, and the value placed on convenience by the burgeoning young population in urban areas. With Nairobi serving as a prime example, the demand for hassle-free delivery services is on the rise, presenting a compelling business case for Uber Eats to capitalize on. As a proponent of disruptive technology, Uber Eats is committed to staying ahead of the curve through continuous innovation. Molewa unveiled upcoming initiatives such as the Direct product, which integrates seamlessly with customers' infrastructure to optimize the delivery experience. Membership programs and a focus on sustainability in delivery solutions are also on the horizon, reflecting Uber Eats' dedication to customer engagement and environmental stewardship. In conclusion, Molewa's insights shed light on Uber Eats' strategic evolution towards non-food deliveries in Africa, underpinned by a commitment to enhancing convenience, fostering local partnerships, and driving innovation in the e-commerce sector. The company's forward-thinking approach positions it well to meet the dynamic demands of the African market and set new standards for delivery services in the region.