SafeBoda is a fraternity of boda-boda drivers that receive extensive training to make them the safest and most professional drivers on the streets.
The company is dedicated to modernizing the informal transportation sector across African cities. Its mission is to ensure safe, reliable, and affordable transportation for everyone at the touch of a button while enhancing the professional standards of the bodaboda industry. According to Derrick Katushabe, the Public Relations & Advocacy Lead, they aim to create a stress-free and convenient urban mobility experience for riders and passengers. In their services, they offer rides through their SafeBoda App which links passengers to well trained and certified bodaboda riders. Besides bodabodas, SafeBoda also offers car ride services for customers seeking a different safe mode of transportation
The company also offers to deliver packages and also has offers of payments/make wallet transactions which include payment of bills, taxes, and airtime as well as sending and receiving money. Katushabe states that SafeBoda caters to the transportation needs of international students in Uganda and offers them a reliable, safe, and convenient mode of transport through its mobile app. With certified and well-trained riders, SafeBoda ensures the safety of students in a new environment, providing them with peace of mind. ‘’The app’s user-friendly interface allows students to easily order rides, track their journeys, and make cashless payments, enhancing their overall mobility experience. Subsequently, SafeBoda’s commitment to affordability makes it an accessible option for students on a budget. He further notes that the company’s strong customer support ensures that any issues or complaints are promptly addressed, contributing to a smooth and dependable transportation solution for international students. He adds that SafeBoda ensures convenient payment options for international students and regular clients by offering various payment methods through its mobile app. Users can easily pay for their rides using cashless payment through their app wallet and cash options. This flexibility allows clients to choose the payment method that best suits their needs, providing a hassle-free and seamless transaction experience.
The App securely stores payment information, making repetitive transactions quick and efficient, and eliminating the need to carry cash. Additionally, SafeBoda’s partnership with financial service providers ensures that payments are processed swiftly and securely, further enhancing the convenience for international students and regular clients. Security-wise, Katushabe states that SafeBoda implements several safety and security measures to ensure the well-being of international students during their rides.
‘’All SafeBoda drivers undergo rigorous training in road safety, bike maintenance, and customer service. The company conducts thorough background checks and vetting processes to ensure driver reliability”, comments Katushabe. Katushabe mentions that each ride is tracked in real-time via GPS, allowing the rider and SafeBoda to monitor the journey.
Helmets are mandatory for both drivers and passengers, enhancing physical safety. Additionally, the App includes an emergency button feature that allows riders to quickly alert authorities and SafeBoda’s support team in case of any issues, ensuring a prompt response to any safety concerns. He again notes that SafeBoda services are highly accessible and available to international students across the Uganda Central Business districts, that is to say, Kampala, Wakiso town, and Mukono town
The SafeBoda App which is available on both Android and iOS platforms, enables students to order rides easily from anywhere within these urban areas. With a vast network of trained and certified riders and SafeCar drivers, SafeBoda ensures prompt and reliable service. ‘’The company’s commitment to safety, affordability, and convenience makes it a popular choice for students navigating their daily commutes and exploring the city, thereby enhancing their overall experience in Uganda,’’ he adds. SafeBoda maintains affordability and costeffectiveness for international students by offering transparent fare structures and frequent promotional discounts
The app provides upfront fare estimates, helping users avoid unexpected costs. Additionally, SafeBoda’s extensive network of trained and certified riders ensures widespread availability, reducing wait times and contributing to overall cost savings. By leveraging technology to optimize routes and minimize fuel consumption, SafeBoda can offer lower prices than traditional taxi services. These factors, combined with regular promotions and loyalty programs, make SafeBoda a budgetfriendly transportation option for international students. Also, SafeBoda enhances the overall experience and satisfaction of international students by offering insured Boda trips, ensuring safety.
The company provides a user-friendly app available in the English language, making it accessible. SafeBoda’s drivers undergo rigorous training in road safety, customer service, and navigation, ensuring a reliable and pleasant ride. The platform also offers convenient cashless payment options, including mobile money and card payments, catering to the diverse financial needs of international students. Additionally, SafeBoda’s customer support is responsive and easily reachable, addressing any concerns promptly and ensuring a smooth and satisfying transportation experience.
In conclusion, Katushabe makes it clear that SafeBoda significantly enhances the overall experience of international students studying in Uganda by providing a reliable, safe, and convenient mode of transportation. The App-based service ensures easy access to trained and certified drivers, promoting a sense of security for students unfamiliar with the local area. With features like cashless payments, SafeBoda simplifies daily commutes and reduces the stress associated with navigating a new city. Additionally, the company’s commitment to road safety and customer service further reassures international students, making their stay in Uganda more comfortable and enjoyable.
By Frank Kamuntu