Kenneth Kazibwe
Rida, a new ride-hailing service provider has officially launched in Kampala and Uganda at large.
This new platform is set to bring an unprecedented level of
convenience, safety, and flexible pricing to Uganda's transportation landscape,
offering both cars and moto services.
According to officials from the company, unlike traditional
ride-hailing platforms that rely on fluctuating fees for passengers and hefty
commissions for drivers, the Rida app allows both parties to directly negotiate
and mutually agree on lower fares.
"Passengers benefit from setting their own price and
from Rida's commission-free policy for drivers, which ensures greater
transparency and fairness. Drivers have the freedom to set fees, screen nearby
rides and preview routes, and accept only their preferred trip requests. As
such, they are given back the power over their time and compensation, without
the fear of being penalized. Rida is also wavering commissions during the
initial launch period of six months," said Timi Ayoade, the Rida manager.
"Our platform is more than just a ride-hailing app. It
is a game-changer, providing our customers with convenience, safety, and the
power to set or negotiate their own fares directly with our drivers."
He said that ordering a ride is simple and intuitive as
passengers are asked for a one-time registration via Facebook or SMS, after
which they select a route and suggest a price they are willing to pay.
Drivers are then informed of the trip and the proposed fare,
either confirming the offer or negotiating a price.
"Passengers are offered multiple offers from drivers,
choosing the one that better fits their expectations or declining all
rides."
Officials say Rida also encourages its passengers to set a
realistic price based on the company's pre-approved minimum rates based on a
range of factors including statistics, day of the week, time of the day,
traffic conditions and official pricing of local ride-hailing services.
"On average, passengers will be able to save up to 30
percent on their trips when compared to other platforms. Rida doesn't
compromise passenger safety in its bid to provide a more flexible and
affordable ride-hailing option. Its impressive suite of in-app safety features
ensures that riders feel safe while traveling. The features include real-time
ride tracking, easy access emergency contacts, and an SOS button. Additionally,
Rida is committed to the thorough vetting of each driver, undergoing background
checks and ongoing evaluations to guarantee consistent and reliable
service," Ayoade said.
He added that drivers complete a chat-based registration
which requires the submission of personal details, vehicle description, a copy
of the driver's license and proof of insurance whereas verified drivers are
given access to a full list of orders currently available in the city, which
are updated in real-time.
"The driver selects any suitable requests and either
accepts the order price or bargains the price. If the new number is confirmed
by the passenger, the driver proceeds with the pick-up."