By Monica Kobusiinge
Kampala: Easy Matatu is a smartphone app that allows you to book a ride directly on a taxi from your mobile phone and has come as a platform that is revolutionizing public transport in Uganda.
The software tacticians launched their USSD app at their head offices in Entebbe on 9 September 2020 and customers can now sign up, book and cancel a ride at no cost by dialling *284*28#.
The USSD app perfectly integrates with the Android and Iphone Operating System( IOS) app synchronizing all user data when the user acquires a smartphone.
Speaking at the launch, Andrew Lema, the Chief Executive Officer at Easy Matatu, said that the advancement was inspired by the need to make the platform accessible to people from all walks of life.
“Easy Matatu was established in 2019 with the intent to impact and improve on transportation in the commuter taxi industry in Uganda and having served over 12,000 passengers with more than 20 trips operated daily, it was substantial to consider an inclusive approach,” he said.
Easy Matatu is redefining public transport , we are using technology to provide solutions that make it easier for the commuter to get to work, to get home and to live life with out hustling and we are harnessing the Matatu you love and it will give you an experience you will never forget.
According to a report by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), the number of registered smartphone users in Uganda was at 5.6 million in 2019.
“This was an indicator that majority of commuters are without smartphones however, more than 24 million Ugandans have a mobile phone therefore the USSD app will enable us better serve our customers and also aid in providing easier and faster travel services to more Ugandans” he noted.
Mr. Lema urged Ugandans to opt for highly professional services that offer safer and well-situated travel experiences, adding that establishments like Easy Matatu will continuously innovate to ensure they redefine public transport for commuters and positively impact the transport industry in Uganda at large.
Oscar Thomas Kalyango, the marketing manager at Easy Matatu said that the app is an addition to an already existing applications and free hotline that customers can use to pay for rides.
“With the addition of the USSD app, more people will be able to book rides, by simply dialing *284*28# whether they have a smartphone or mobile phone,” he said.
Kalyango added that Easy Matatu aims at providing readily available rides, while ensuring they are safe, clean and convenient for their commuters.
“Commuters can book and pay for seats on scheduled rides by trained Easy Matatu minibus taxis. Operations are currently on Entebbe, Najjera, Kira, Seeta and Mukono roads.” he added
