Online-based drivers cry foul

UBER  FARES

Cab drivers are rooting for standard fares for long distance trips, citing challenges of increased fuel prices.

The drivers are demanding sh7,000 for the shortest distance covered. They are currently getting sh4,000.

Smart on line driver's association (SODA), is an organization which brings together all digital cab drivers whose business is conducted by the use of an application installed on a smart phone.

Speaking during a press conference, which took place at Centenary Park in Kampala on Tuesday, Musa Kabunga, SODA chairman said, it is un fair for companies to set low prices for transport fares, yet fuel prices are high.

Because clients only pay a fee which is indicated on their phone, Kabunga said, once the money is displayed on the phone, it is hard to convince a passenger to pay more.

According to Kabunga, it is unfair for companies to set low prices to attract more clients, yet drivers are making losses.

Hope Ahimbisibwe, a driver said, recently she took a passenger to Entebbe Airport, on arrival the money indicated on the phone was sh9,000, which is little.

"Currently, Uber minimum rate has been cut to sh4,000 with a commission rate of 25 percent, while Taxify's minimum rate is sh4,500 and its commission rate is 15percent," Kabunga stated.

In addition, Kabunga also demanded for the introduction of compensation system, in case of a robbery.

Aaron Tindisega, the leader for Uber Uganda said: "There is no need of hiking the transport fares because our pricing is very clear and transparent. We have clear outline of all our fares.

For example, minimum fare is sh4,000. However, if a driver has to wait for a client, the client pays sh100 per minute of waiting. Basically, the app does not work in isolation, if there is a shortage, Uber refunds the money."

Tindisega also said that in case of any challenge or accident, there is a platform, which works 24 hours where a driver or client can raise their concerns.

For instance, if the passenger pays less money, yet the distance was far, the driver can raise a complaint and his or her money can be compensated.