Uber is excited to celebrate five years since its launch in Ghana. More than 6000* flexible economic opportunities have been created through the app which provides residents in Ghana's cities with affordable, safe and reliable transport solutions at the tap of a button.

"We are committed to keeping riders moving and drivers earning and we continue to unlock opportunities through the Uber platform in Ghana. It has been an exciting journey over the past five years and we are honoured to have made a change in the lives of our communities."

Despite the universal challenges that COVID-19 has wrought on economies in Africa and around the world, Ghana's economy showed signs of early recovery [1] in the second half of 2020, which can be attributed to strong performances in key industries and sectors. In order to maintain the upward momentum, it is important to have in place an efficient transportation system that serves the diverse needs of the population. The Ministry of Transportation for Ghana has set for itself a vision to create an accessible, affordable, reliable and innovative transport system that meets the evolving needs of the populace.

Uber's goal is to tailor its offering to suit the needs of consumers, while ensuring that every rider can enjoy the convenience and safety of each trip. In addition to improving mobility options, Uber has also introduced safety tools at users' fingertips such as the Safety Toolkit [2]. Uber has further developed safety mechanisms [3] in response to COVID-19, including a pre-trip safety checklist, a world-first mask recognition technology and a 14-day financial assistance to drivers who have been quarantined by a medical professional due to COVID-19.

While the pandemic was challenging, Uber used this opportunity to adapt their technology and work with communities in need, while ensuring drivers kept earning. For example, Uber Connect, a contactless delivery offering was launched last year, which allows users to send much-needed packages to family and friends. Uber also saw a trend where small businesses have been making use of the offering to reach their customers. The company also partnered with Safe Space Foundation and Free Lunch to sponsor rides for frontline workers, as well as victims of domestic violence at the onset of the pandemic.

Uber has increased access to car ownership for driver-partners through their most recent partnership with Moove, a vehicle solutions company. "What we love most about this Uber's partnership is that it will ensure that 50% of drivers are women, empowering them whilst also providing peace of mind when it comes to safety, explains Jessica Poku, Country Manager for Uber Ghana. Poku concludes: "We're really excited to be #MovingGhana. We are inspired by the country's rapidly developing infrastructure and spirit of entrepreneurship and we look forward to continuing to provide people across Ghana with an affordable, easy and flexible choice to move around the city safely and reliably."