Given the high rate of unemployment, the rise of entrepreneurs in Sub Saharan Africa is growing at an exponential rate with different individuals being drawn to the flexibility of being a business owner as well as the sustainable earning opportunities.

To celebrate Entrepreneurship Day [21 August], we are putting the spotlight on Uber drivers who wear many hats and continue to be industrious, focused and resilient. 

Meet some of the Uber drivers from across Africa, as they give us a glimpse into their lives and show what inspires them, what they enjoy most about their work, and what the future holds for them. 

Jane - Kenya 

Jane joined Uber after losing her job and staying at home with nothing to do for five months due to unemployment.

 Before driving with Uber, Jane was a volunteer driver and then worked as a driver for a Nairobi family for a few months. 

She says driving comes naturally to her. Jane has been an Uber driver for almost four years and has a rating of 4.93 which she believes is a testament to her good service and reliability as a driver.

When asked about what she appreciates most about driving with Uber she says, “Uber’s customer care service is good to me as a driver and our customers. In case of anything, they are always able to sort it out”.

Mavis - Ghana

Mavis joined Uber after working for the now-defunct UT Bank for 13 years. She wanted to start her cooking business and also make enough money to support her family.

 Mavis explains, “It wasn’t an easy period but I had to look for another source of income immediately. I started cooking on a contract basis for events and cooking for individuals in their homes. After some time, I realised I couldn’t depend solely on that so the idea of using my vehicle for Uber came up.”

She said most people were excited to ride with women as women were more careful in driving. “The compliments I receive from my customers are encouraging. Users of the app are able to rate the driver after the service. The highest rating is “five stars” and currently I have “4.86”, which is commendable,” she noted.

Palesa Sempe - South Africa 

Palesa started her career as an Uber driver four years ago, after being retrenched from her then job and being without work for four years.

Palesa is now back in the driver's seat of her own life as an Uber driver.

Palesa, a single mom to two boys, she is now able to provide for her children and is breaking barriers as a woman in what is traditionally viewed as a man's job. 

“Being an Uber driver has helped me survive as I don't bother anyone for financial help. I am able to put food on the table and take care of my kids. I would really encourage anyone looking for financial freedom to consider driving for Uber,  as it has helped me maintain my family.”