Kenyan app billed as ‘Uber for upcountry travel’

NipeLift is an app that connects drivers who have empty seats with passengers looking for better, cheaper & safer rides.

Unlike Uber, drivers make no profit as the law prohibits non-psv from carrying passengers for ‘profit, gain or reward’. Drivers on NipeLift do not make profits; money charged is only enough to cover car operating costs – fuel, tires and service. Prices are determined using AA Kenya’s recommended mileage costs per kilometre. Meaning you cannot charge more than the recommended price.

Safety and trust is everything and according to the company, they take very deliberate steps to make people feel safe and secure while using Nipelift. All drivers and passengers on NipeLift have verified profiles. “We verify their phone numbers, names, national ID & driving licenses. Ratings and reviews ensure that over time only the best-rated drivers and passengers are eligible for us of the platform. Finally, one can also choose to only ride with fellow women, work or school colleagues, said Boniface Githinji, CEO of Sematime Ltd.

The CEO is adamant that NipeLift is going to be a game changer. He believes there are enough opportunities
for both matatus and NipeLift to co-exist together since at the end of the day, it’s the passengers who will benefit from a great choice of options.

“Disruption is inevitable. And that time is now. Just because there has been a generally accepted way of doing things doesn’t mean it’s the only way or no way,” said Githinji.

The app is available on Google PlayStore and one should be able to offer or request a lift from all major cities
and towns in Kenya.

Edited by Neo Sesinye
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