We reported on Safeboda’s return to the Kenyan market after a 3-year hiatus a couple of weeks ago, but it seems the mobility company is not resting. Safeboda is reportedly set to launch an array of new services in the country as part of an aggressive expansion effort.
Safeboda Returns to Kenya with Vast Expansion Plans
After exiting the Kenyan market in 2020, Safeboda recently announced its official return, with plans to relaunch its popular bike-hailing service in February 2024.
However, the Uganda-based company has much bigger plans beyond bike-hailing, as it aims to establish itself as a top mobility provider in Kenya once again.
Also Read: SafeBoda to relaunch in Kenya in February after three-year hiatus
Safeboda is planning to introduce several new verticals, including its SafeCar taxi service, food delivery, shopping delivery, and partner services – all available via the Safeboda super app.
This massive expansion demonstrates Safeboda’s commitment to leading the mobility space across Africa despite past stumbles.
Launching SafeCar to Compete with Uber and Bolt
One of the flagship new offerings will be SafeCar, Safeboda’s own taxi-hailing platform similar to Uber and Bolt. SafeCar first launched in Uganda last year and quickly became popular. The company will now expand it to Kenya with full integration into the main Safeboda app.
Riders will be able to use the app to hail SafeCars, enter destinations, select payment methods, and book just as they would with other ride-hailing apps. SafeCar aims to compete head-to-head with Uber and Bolt in the taxi segment through strong brand recognition and integration with Safeboda’s motorcycle service.
With efficient operations and competitive pricing, Safeboda believes SafeCar can rapidly gain market share in Kenya’s lucrative taxi market.
Food Delivery Launch Despite Past Industry Struggles
In addition to ride-hailing expansion, Safeboda is also planning to launch its own food delivery vertical in Kenya. This is despite the overwhelming struggles faced by companies like Bolt Food, which recently exited the Nigerian market after failing to gain market share against apps like Jumia Foods.
However, Safeboda aims to leverage its strong brand presence and focus on customer experience to carve out a space in the food delivery landscape. The company likely hopes to avoid the fate of others by integrating food ordering into its well-established mobility app.
If bike riders can deliver both passengers and meals, costs can be kept low while food delivery is marketed to existing app users. Still, competing with established players will prove an immense challenge.
Safeboda Super App to Offer Delivery Services
Along with food delivery, reports suggest that Safeboda will also offer shopping delivery and partner services through its app as part of its super app strategy. Riders and drivers will be able to pick up and deliver various goods ordered through the platform.
By bringing multiple offerings, including financial services, into a single app, Safeboda aims to become deeply integrated into its users’ daily lives across East Africa.
The massive Kenya expansion showcases Safeboda’s long-term commitment to leading the mobility and delivery space in Africa despite past stumbles outside Uganda.
With fierce determination, the company now reenters Kenya, ready to take on both old and new competitors.
