Judy Wanjiru: Kenyan Woman Makes up To KSh 200k Monthly from Taxi Business

 

The taxi-hailing business has gained momentum in Kenya over the last decade. Judy Wanjiru runs an Uber business. Gone were the days when taxis were a preserve of the affluent in society. Kenyans, mostly in urban areas, can access taxis online at an affordable cost. The taxi business has become competitive as apps scramble for the market in major cities and towns. Taxis are a source of livelihood for thousands of Kenyans amid scarce jobs. How Judy Wanjiru became a taxi driver Judy Wanjiru is one of the taxi drivers on Kenyan roads. In an interview with Explore TV, she revealed she makes up to KSh 7,000 daily and KSh 5,000 on a bad day, translating to KSh 200,000 in a good month. Subscribe to watch new videos According to Bizna Kenya, Wanjiru used to sell new and used cars in Mombasa. During her free time as a salesperson, she worked as a part-time taxi driver. She later relocated to Nairobi and hustled before she got the idea of working as an Uber driver. The businesswoman sold her Nissan Serena car and bought a Nissan Note. Wanjiru begins work at 4am and ends her day at 7pm.  "For example, yesterday I woke up at 4am. At 6, there was a client who wanted me to take him to Naivasha. The price that showed on the app was only enough to fuel the car. I requested we renegotiate the amount. I ended up getting KSh 15,000 and this car does not consume much. I spent KSh 4,000 (on fuel). I saved KSh 11,000 from that four to five hour journey. If I check on the app, I can't fail to earn KSh 200,000 monthly," she disclosed. One of the problems she faces is drunk passengers and others who are unwilling to pay for her services. Women taxi drivers reveal challenges they face Earlier, TUKO.co.ke reported that the taxi industry is transforming significantly as more women enter the male-dominated field. E-taxi companies offer unique opportunities for women by adopting women-only options catering to passengers' preferences, creating a niche market for female drivers. The prevalence of sexual harassment and unwanted advances from male customers are some of the challenges faced by women in the taxi industry. 

by  Japhet Ruto