Johannesburg 27 November 2024: Business Tech Africa attended the inaugural Uber Economic Impact report 2024 release for the 2023 Year period and unpacks some of the key findings for our readers.
Employment trends globally are moving increasingly towards a large gig-economy world where people are involved in multiple jobs or business endeavours at once with people looking not only to increasing their incomes but also reducing the risk of a single income or job.
The movement has been strongly driven by tech advances and the digital economy that is changing the landscape by offering opportunity to engage in multiple income streams while still holding a job or as an alternative to a permanent job where retrenchments can destroy one’s financial stability overnight as corporates seek to drive cost savings.
It is this economy that falls right into the centre of UBER’s entire eco-system where it builds multiple opportunities for people to build new businesses or be “self-employed” with time flexibility to build up other businesses or create separate income streams.
Big Economic Impact Indicated
Details in the report, indicate that transportation and delivery services organised via the Uber platform contributed an estimated R17 billion to South Africa’s economy, representing 3.5% of the transport sector’s total economic output.
Over R2.3 billion in annual earnings was provided via flexible earning opportunities, for drivers and delivery people in South Africa who are achieving newfound financial independence and resilience.
This flexibility, has enabled these drivers and delivery people to earn on their own schedules and their own terms.
“Uber is deeply committed to making a positive impact on South Africa, not only by providing cutting-edge mobility and delivery solutions, but also by aligning with South Africa’s goals for economic advancement and sustainable growth,” says Ofentse Madisha, Uber’s Head of Public Policy in South Africa. “This report further highlights our dedication to driving meaningful changes across sectors like retail, tourism, and the gig economy while fostering safe, reliable, and convenient connections within and to communities.”
Key Findings of the Report:
The research survey undertaken with Uber App users shows that:
- Around 88% of users stating that delivery apps had helped them discover new dining options, and so supporting discovery and use of local businesses and culinary entrepreneurs that has resulted in the generation of an additional R1.6 billion for these businesses and entrepreneurs.
- Uber has been a key player in supporting the country’s vibrant nightlife. The report reveals an estimated R394 million in additional value facilitated for South Africa’s night time economy, through access to convenient and safe transport options to nightlife hubs.
- Over 76% of riders noted that without ridesharing platforms, finding safe travel options at night would be challenging, highlighting Uber’s role in addressing safety concerns—especially for women—and in reducing incidents of drunk-driving.
- South Africa’s tourism industry is benefitting from Uber’s presence, with over R1 billion added in value due to convenient, dependable transport options.
- Food and grocery deliveries saving South Africans over 12.7 million hours each year,
“Uber is more than a platform for rides or food deliveries – we’re dedicated to creating lasting value for all who live in South Africa. Through the creation of earning opportunities, enhanced safety, and increased convenience, we aim to play our part in building a stronger, more connected South Africa.” adds Madisha.
