SAFEMOTOS IN KIGALI SHOWS HOW TO USE MODERN TECHNOLOGY TO GROW ONE’S BUSINESS
(Posted 05th February 2016)
Unlike many taxi drivers in Nairobi, who resorted to violence and intimidation against Uber drivers instead of embracing new technologies to catapult their businesses into the 21st century, have ‘Boda Boda’ riders in Kigali done the opposite. Named as one of East Africa’s most exciting new business startups, fully relying on modern communications technology, have a group of motor cycle transporters, commonly called ‘Boda Boda’ in East Africa, come together and joined hands with Barret Nash. It was he who developed an App for residents and visitors to Kigali to hail a safe ride after downloading the free application on their Android smartphones.
In January over 2.000 trips were booked by users, according to Barrett the most successful month yet and even better days are ahead as the iOS app will be launched this month. An upgraded version of SafeMotos will be easier to use and help to cut down on the time it takes to have a motorcycle pull up, ready to offer a ride.
(Nash seen in the middle during the launch of SafeMoto. Passengers are provided with a safety helmet which under Rwandan traffic law is mandatory)
Notably are passengers, when they register, given a 1.000 Rwandan Francs credit and more credits can be claimed when referring new subscribers, who of course also get a sign up credit. The application, and information about the new venture, can be found via www.safemotos.com and it is understood that Barrett is now looking into setting up franchise operations across the region.
While ordinary motor cycle riders are often poorly trained has Barrett made sure that those who are now part of SafeMotos are not just well trained but use properly maintained machines and carry, besides the mandatory helmet for passengers also head covers which must be worn by passengers for hygienic reasons. This makes it a viable proposition for visitors to Kigali to get from point A to point B, safely, without being stuck in traffic in a conventional cab. With free WiFi now widely available across Kigali can visitors access the app on their smart phone wherever they are and hail their ride, literally by the tip of their fingers.
