RIDA, an innovative taxi service, has launched in the capital city, to bring competition on Harare’s transportation landscape.
Rida city manager Tawanda Nyagwaya said the platform is set to bring an unprecedented level of convenience offering the most reliable transportation service on the market.
“We are thrilled to introduce Rida to Harare. This is a bright opportunity for us to bring safe and reliable ride-hailing products to the market. Our platform is more than just a ride-hailing application,” Nyagwaya said.
“Rida is a game-changer, providing our customers with convenience, safety and the power to set or negotiate their own fares directly with our drivers. During the beta testing period, the use of Rida will be completely free for drivers.
“Since the ride is paid by the passenger directly to the driver, compensation is made on the spot, in full. To join the Rida revolution, one has to download the Rida application from the App Store or Google Play Store and enjoy the convenience, safety and financial freedom it affords.”
Unlike traditional taxi service platforms which rely on fluctuating fees for passengers and hefty commissions for drivers, Nyagwaya said the Rida application allows both parties to directly negotiate and mutually agree on fares to offer flexible pricing.
“Passengers benefit from setting their own price and from Rida’s commission-free policy for drivers, which ensures greater transparency and fairness. Ordering a ride is simple and intuitive as passengers are asked for a one-time registration (via WhatsApp or SMS), after which they select a route and suggest a price they are willing to pay.
He continued: “Drivers are informed of the trip and the proposed fare, either confirming the offer or negotiating a price. Passengers are offered multiple offers from drivers, choosing the one that better fits their expectations or declining all rides.
- Bulls to charge into Zimbabwe gold stocks
- Byo armed robber in court
- Woman jailed 12 years for indecent assault
- Magistrate jailed 3 years for abuse of office
Keep Reading
“Rida also encourages its passengers to set a realistic price based on Rida’s pre-approved minimum rates. Those are based on a range of factors including statistics, day of the week, time of the day, traffic conditions and official pricing of local ride-hailing services.”
On average, passengers will be able to save up to 30% on their trips compared to other platforms.
“Rida does not compromise passenger safety in its bid to provide a more flexible and affordable ride-hailing option. Its impressive suite of in-app safety features that ensures that riders feel safe while traveling include real-time ride tracking, easy access emergency contacts, and an SOS button
“Rida is committed to the thorough vetting of each driver, undergoing background checks and ongoing evaluations to guarantee consistent and reliable service. Drivers complete a chat-based registration which requires the submission of personal details, vehicle description, a copy of the driver’s licence and proof of insurance.
“Verified drivers are given access to a full list of orders currently available in the city, which are updated in real-time. The driver selects any suitable requests and either accepts the order price or bargains the price. If the new number is confirmed by the passenger, the driver proceeds with the pick-up.
“Drivers have the freedom to set fees, screen nearby rides and preview routes, and accept only their preferred trip requests. As such, they are given back the power over their time and compensation, without the fear of being penalised,” he added.
Rida is waiving commissions during its initial launch period.
- Follow Winstone on Twitter @widzoanto
