Uber commits $300 million Investment to boost South Africa’s digital Economy

Global ride-hailing giant Uber has pledged to invest $300 million (R5 billion) in South Africa over the coming years, in a major move aimed at expanding mobility, delivery services, and digital platform growth. The announcement, made during the South Africa Investment Conference, signals growing investor confidence in Africa’s largest economy and its digital transformation agenda. The investment is expected to unlock new earning opportunities for drivers, delivery partners, and small businesses, while contributing to job creation. According to Uber’s Sub-Saharan Africa General Manager, Deepesh

Global ride-hailing giant Uber has pledged to invest $300 million (R5 billion) in South Africa over the coming years, in a major move aimed at expanding mobility, delivery services, and digital platform growth.

The announcement, made during the South Africa Investment Conference, signals growing investor confidence in Africa’s largest economy and its digital transformation agenda. The investment is expected to unlock new earning opportunities for drivers, delivery partners, and small businesses, while contributing to job creation.

According to Uber’s Sub-Saharan Africa General Manager, Deepesh Thomas, the focus is not just on figures, but on real economic impact. He emphasized that the investment will support everyday livelihoods—from students accessing transport to entrepreneurs reaching wider markets through digital platforms.

A significant portion of the funding will be directed toward expanding services such as Uber Moto, enhancing last-mile connectivity, and supporting the transition to electric vehicles. The company is also investing in innovative financing solutions and partnerships to lower barriers to entry for drivers.

Uber further highlighted its commitment to supporting township businesses by helping them digitize operations and access delivery logistics, strengthening their participation in the digital economy.

Already, more than 100,000 people earn through Uber’s platform in South Africa. The new investment aims to scale this impact by improving access to opportunities and fostering inclusive growth.

The move comes as Uber continues to expand across Africa, where ride-hailing and delivery services are increasingly vital in addressing unemployment and mobility challenges. The company operates in several countries across the continent and is exploring further expansion opportunities, including potential entry into Rwanda.

With this latest commitment, Uber positions itself at the center of Africa’s evolving digital economy, leveraging technology to drive innovation, inclusion, and sustainable growth.