Ride-hailing company Uber has ended its operations in Uganda after a decade in the market, bringing its services in the country to a close effective September 2, 2026.
Uber, which launched its services in Kampala in 2016, said the decision followed a review of its business operations in Uganda.
In a statement to customers released on Wednesday, the company said it had made the decision to wind down its Ugandan operations after a thorough review of the business.
“After a thorough review of our business, we have made the tough decision to wind down our operations in Uganda, effective 2 September 2026,” Uber said.
The company thanked Ugandans for using its platform over the past 10 years, saying it had been a privilege to serve customers by connecting them with independent transportation providers.
“Since we first launched in Kampala in 2016, it has been an absolute privilege to be a part of your daily life, connecting you with independent transportation providers,” the company said.
Uber said its platform had served people travelling to work, visiting family and friends, and exploring Kampala.
“Whether it was a morning commute, a ride to see loved ones, or exploring the city, thank you for trusting the platform to connect you to a driver to get you there safely,” it added.
The company acknowledged that its departure could disrupt the routines of customers who had come to rely on its services.
“We know this may cause disruption to your routine, and we sincerely apologise for the inconvenience,” Uber said.
Uber’s exit is likely to affect drivers and other people who relied on the platform for income, while customers who had embraced app-based transport will have to consider competing ride-hailing platforms or conventional transport options.
For drivers, the closure means losing access to a platform that connected them with passengers and provided an additional source of income. Some may now have to migrate to alternative ride-hailing platforms or explore other income opportunities.
For passengers, the departure removes one of the country’s established app-based transport services, potentially reducing choice in a sector that has increasingly relied on digital platforms.
Customers who became accustomed to booking rides through an app, tracking drivers and making cashless payments may now have to adjust to alternative services.
Uber’s departure also comes amid broader questions about the sustainability of ride-hailing businesses in African markets, particularly as operators face challenges related to operating costs, competition, regulation and profitability.
The company’s exit follows its withdrawal from Nigeria, where it had operated for about 12 years, highlighting the changing dynamics of the ride-hailing industry across the continent.
In Uganda, Uber’s departure is likely to reignite debate about the role of digital platforms in creating employment and income opportunities while transforming the country’s urban transport sector.
Since entering Kampala in 2016, Uber has been part of the shift towards app-based transportation, offering an alternative to traditional taxis and boda bodas.
Its exit marks the end of a decade-long presence in Uganda and leaves drivers and passengers to navigate a transport market increasingly shaped by competing digital platforms and conventional services.
