This archive report was first published on 22 June 2020.
Published on June 22, 2020, Uber and Mastercard have joined forces to provide 120,000 free trips and meals to those supporting communities across the Middle East and Africa in a bid to help curb the spread of COVID-19.
As part of this initiative, Uber will make its wide network of drivers available to ensure that frontline workers and those who are supporting communities have a reliable and efficient way of getting around.
According to Anthony le Roux, Regional General Manager at Uber for the Middle East and Africa, “It is our role to help the society by providing relief, especially those who work tirelessly to support our communities. This is the largest partnership for us across MEA and we are amazed at Mastercard’s relentless effort to make a difference. We are proud to be working alongside them to ensure those supporting our communities, especially those on the frontline, have access to safe and reliable transport.”
Uber drivers are arranging transportation to and from homes of caregivers, as well as to healthcare facilities or to feed the vulnerable. The company has also shared relevant health information with drivers to ensure they are well-informed in COVID-19 related safety protocols and have been provided with masks and sanitizer reimbursements.
Mastercard is extending its support to help those who help others, applying its technology, philanthropy, and data science expertise to rebuild healthy communities and ensure that economic growth is inclusive.
In Kenya, Uber is working with The Nairobi Hospital and Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital to provide trips to ease movement for medical professionals, ensuring that frontline workers have a reliable and efficient way of getting to and from where their services are required.
Amnah Ajmal, Executive Vice President Market Development at Mastercard for the Middle East and Africa, explains, “Mastercard continues to partner with digital players across the value chain to build a more connected world by supporting our communities. With our partner Uber, we are committed to support healthcare and essential workers who are working tirelessly to take care of us. Uber’s mission to improve lives is matched with Mastercard’s mission of doing well by doing good, together we are focused on helping frontline workers across the region feel confident and safe with access to free transportation.”
