Rida: New ride hailing service provider launches in Kampala

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.”