Rides have to be over R40 per trip to qualify for the promotion. Image: Flickr
Uber offers South Africans discounted rides on election day
E-hailing service Uber is offering riders in South Africa discounted fares on Wednesday to get to and from polling stations.
Rides have to be over R40 per trip to qualify for the promotion. Image: Flickr
Uber South Africa has announced a promotional offer for Wednesday 29 May, when citizens will be casting their vote in the 2024 general elections.
The tech company says riders can save up to 35% on two trips on voting day – namely their trip to and from their designated voting station.
“Ensuring that anyone and everyone can exercise their right to vote is a cornerstone of a vibrant and inclusive democracy,” said Kagiso Khaole, General Manager of Uber Sub-Saharan Africa.
The finer print
The 35% off promotion is being offered to the first 50 000 riders who punch in the promotional code on the app on voting day. Rides also have to be over R40 to qualify for the promotion.
Uber’s regular terms and conditions will still apply.
“At Uber, we understand that reliable and convenient transportation can play a crucial role in being able to make your mark at an important moment for the country, such as the general elections and we want to play our part in making sure that every voice is heard, as every vote counts,” Khaole added.
Uber Teen accounts have launched in South Africa
In other Uber news, the multinational transportation company announced the rollout of Uber Teen accounts across South Africa last month.
This will enable youths aged 13 to 17 to hail rides, with added safety and security measures.
The solution is linked to parents’ and guardians’ Uber profiles so that guardians can monitor every stage of the trip.
Strict screening and background checks
Safety measures on this new service will include automated audio recording, trip tracking, location-based security response, and AI systems that can detect route deviations and prolonged stops.
Only top-rated, experienced drivers who have undergone local screening and background checks can take trip requests from teen account holders.
Guardians will also be able to contact drivers at any point during the trip, while teen riders cannot alter the destination once the trip has begun.
“Uber Teen accounts are built with transparency in mind so that there are no surprises for parents, teens or drivers,” Khoale said.
“Parents will receive real-time notifications and can follow along with live-trip tracking every step of the way.”
To further bolster safety, teens have to provide drivers with a unique personal identification number, or pin, before starting a trip. This will also ensure that teens get into the right car with the right driver.
