This archive report was first published on 9 October 2019.
On October 9, 2019, Nairobi-based Maridady Motors Limited launched a taxi-hailing app called Peppea, aiming to give drivers and riders a better deal.
The app takes a seven percent commission from drivers, which is lower than what some of its competitors charge. For instance, if a driver makes Sh1,000, Peppea will earn Sh75, while some competitors earn Sh200 commission from the same amount.
According to Erick Wokabi, the business development manager at Maridady Motors, the new app is banking on better pay for drivers and improved comfort for passengers to edge out competition.
The platform offers several payment options, including cash, M-Pesa, credit/debit card, and online payment through the Peppea wallet.
Peppea is being rolled out in five phases, with the first phase launched in Ruaka, Kiambu. The app will expand to the entire Nairobi by the end of the year.
The platform offers four categories of transport: Ubuntu, Platinum, Gold, and Classic. Ubuntu offers seven-seater vans, while Platinum is a luxury and semi-luxury taxi. Gold is meant for corporate companies, and Classic is the lowest in terms of cost.
Maridady Motors hopes to create more jobs for the youth through Peppea and its Smart PSVs business wing. The firm plans to work with university students as Peppea agents who will enlist drivers for the business.
