KAMPALA – Ride hailing company Uber has again increased transport fares as the company struggles to stay afloat in the market amid rising competition and credibility issues.
In June last year, Uber increased the transport fares, citing high operating costs. In October, they increased the fares higher after their drivers went on strike.
But in a statement issued on Tuesday, January 28, 2020, Uber said that the latest price hike is as a result of a thorough review of their operations.
“While we have always tried to keep prices as low as possible, we need to be aware of the increased costs for driver-partners. This comes after implementing an in-depth earnings review to ensure that the Uber app continues to be a reliable economic opportunity for driver-partners, as well as an affordable option for riders,” the company said in a statement.
According to the new fares, a trip per kilometer has been increased from Shs700 to Shs850 while a trip per minute fare has been increased from Shs100 to Shs130.
The base and minimum fares have remained at Shs1,250 and Shs6,000 respectively.
Uber also explained that they have made significant investment in technology that will improve safety of its clients following reports that some of their drivers have robbed the users.
“You are able to select up to five loved ones as ‘Trusted Contacts’ and can choose to be prompted to share trip details with them during every ride – with a single tap,” the statement added.
