Uber’s Imran Manji: East Africa is the future

American ride-hailing giant Uber has reported a staggering Ksh14.1 billion in revenue from its Kenya operations in 2023, signaling a strong growth trajectory in the region. Despite facing demands from drivers for better pay models, Uber remains optimistic about its prospects in East Africa. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, Imran Manji, Head of East Africa at Uber, shared insights on the company's recent impact report and its strategies for the future. Imran emphasized Kenya's untapped potential, highlighting that only 40% of the population is currently connected to smartphones, underscoring room for further expansion in the market. He mentioned the successful launch of Uber Comfort, a premium product, and Uber Electric Border, which has already clocked over a million trips since its inception. Imran attributed the company's growth to its focus on safety, reliable services, affordability, and strategic partnerships like zero-rated data with Safaricom to enhance accessibility and affordability for both passengers and drivers. Regarding job creation, Uber's operations have significantly contributed to income-generating opportunities, especially for drivers and the surrounding ecosystem, with an additional Ksh2.2 billion generated compared to alternative options. Imran also addressed concerns raised by drivers regarding compensation models, emphasizing Uber's efforts to reduce driver costs through partnerships for services and maintenance, affordable data packages, and insurance coverage. The company is committed to increasing driver revenues by boosting utilization rates and ensuring high-quality vehicles on the platform. Imran pointed out Uber's sustainability initiatives, with a goal to achieve zero-emissions in North America and Europe by 2030 and globally by 2040. The company has already embarked on an electrification journey in Africa, with the successful uptake of Uber Electric Border, indicating a commitment to environmental responsibility and addressing climate change concerns. As Uber continues to expand its reach and offerings in East Africa, the focus remains on driving growth, enhancing driver income, and promoting sustainability in line with evolving market dynamics and global trends.