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Rwanda-based YEGO Global has launched operations in Kenya through its subsidiary – YEGO Mobility Kenya Limited to provide customized taxi-hailing services that are set to revolutionize urban mobility in the country with better terms for drivers and fair fares for passengers.
The launch follows in-depth on-ground feasibility studies over the past two years and targets addressing pain points of the driver community and passengers.
Besides having the lowest commissions in the industry at 12%, YEGO drivers are provided personal accident insurance at no cost and medical insurance to qualifying Drivers.
Fares will also be kept in line with the prevailing fuel prices and traffic situations, and drivers can withdraw their earnings on demand with the actual processing fees. In the recent past, digital taxi operators have protested low rates charged by service providers and high commission rates.
A drivers’ SACCO (savings and credit cooperative) is being set up and YEGO Mobility Kenya has committed to pay 10% of its dividend to the SACCO to secure the Drivers’ future.
“It is a very proud moment for YEGO Mobility to be the 1st licensed app by NTSA in Kenya. We are providing a customized solution for Kenya, one that has been purpose-built to free the driver community from the digital slavery of the Gig economy,” said Karanvir Singh, CEO and Founder of YEGO Global.
YEGO Global has been operating in Rwanda since 2016 where it became the first licensee in Rwanda to provide a smart mobility solution using Intelligent Connected Fare Meters (ICFM).
YEGO has 100% market share of the taxicab and boda boda market in Kigali and will expand to cover the entire country.
Being the sole licensee in Rwanda, YEGO is all set to drive secure and smart digitization for the boda and taxicab industry. YEGO’s operation in Rwanda has been recognized globally for driving inclusion, innovation and upliftment of women and youth, by reputable organizations such as Fast Company, Africacom, and AppsAfrica Innovation Awards.
With all the benefits being part of the signed agreements with Drivers, YEGO Kenya is steadfast in delivering its promise of Making Lives Better.
“Our innovative “frugal” approach allows us to design a solution for emerging markets, where Driving a Taxicab or Boda is a fulltime job and not a Gig. Our low-friction approach not only ensures that we are fair to both Drivers and Passengers, but that we are sustainable for decades to come”, explained Singh.
While Apps make it convenient to book a ride, YEGO goes a step further by enabling Passengers to instantly start a ride by simply scanning a QR code with the unique ‘Pair Ride’, a feature not available with any other ride-hailing companies.
The Passengers’ destination and preferred payment option is seamlessly transferred to enable navigation and fare calculation. The in-App wallet allows passengers to simply walk away at the end of the ride without having to pull out cash or even enter a PIN.
YEGO takes Passenger and Driver security seriously and in addition to a stringent vetting process has a 24/7 Call Centre that can be contacted instantly. Passengers and Drivers can reach us on 0730 818181 to book rides 24/7, 365 days a year.
“Our courteous, multilingual agents are ready to help overcome language barriers, help with landmark-based navigation and resolve any issues that may arise for either Passengers or Drivers,” explained Singh. YEGO’s passenger feedback for the Rwanda Call Centre has been overwhelmingly positive as people are delighted to have the human “touch”, instead of having to send emails or look for answers on an App.
YEGO Kenya wants to bridge the digital divide by helping Taxi Drivers adopt and understand technology, inculcate the habit of saving, build credit scores – which will help them access finance, upgrade their vehicles, be covered by insurance and so much more.
With the launch of this world class service in Kenya, YEGO will deliver dignity, respect, and fair earnings to Taxi Drivers. By being fully tax-compliant and by allocating 10% of its dividends to Driver upliftment via the SACCO, YEGO will help grow the economy and build better infrastructure.
It will also ensure that the money spent in Kenya remains in Kenya. With YEGO, mobility in Kenya will be on the fast-track to a Cashless Economy, as per the Government’s vision.
YEGO has invested over 2 years in the Kenya project. Singh explains, “It has been a long journey, from understanding the challenges faced by both Drivers and Passengers to incorporating not just a solution, but a company that’s foundation is built on a double-bottom line – we are impact first and profit second. Unlike other players who made lofty promises they did not keep, as already demonstrated, we are serious about our commitments!
In just 15 days, over 5,000 Drivers have joined YEGO, we expect to have almost every driver in Nairobi join YEGO in the coming weeks – to Earn Better and Ride Better!
