New technologies and business models are rapidly opening alternative pathways for women in emerging markets like Africa.
In Uganda, the ride-hailing industry is creating opportunities for several women. Many have abandoned their corporate jobs to drive cabs for a living, and have no regrets about their decisions.
Since the arrival of ride-hailing platform Uber in the East African country, many women have ventured into the taxi business.
On average, the drivers make $ 50 each day.
Most of the women in the business hail the industry not only for the money it brings, but also for getting more time to spend with their families.
“It’s good, because it gives me more time to take care of other errands, take care of my children and am able to work at my own time… actually am my own boss working with Uber,” Lilian Kabanweri – a female driver in Kampala – says of the Uber business.
The traditional taxi industry in Uganda was largely male dominated. Uber has however changed that, as more women take up the service as a means of earning their own money.
According Uber, out of its 1000 active drivers in Uganda a quarter are women, and this is largely attributed to the safety features that make female drivers feel more comfortable.
