Kenya should protect legitimate businesses

NAIROBI: Competition, they say, is healthy for business. In a largely liberalised market economy like ours, competition is a lot better not only because it offers variety, it guarantees quality.

Taxi services in Kenya are among the most expensive in the world, yet in most instances do not give value for money. More often than not, the vehicles are not in good mechanical condition and since many drivers operate as individuals, safety is not guaranteed. Many times people have hired taxis never to be seen alive again. Conversely, taxi drivers who operate loosely without checks and balances have also fallen prey to thugs who masquerade as passengers.

The entry of Uber taxis seems to have changed the dynamics of doing taxi business in Nairobi and ruffled quite a number of feathers. The good thing is that it is the sort of disruption that passes on the benefit to the customer. Traditional taxi drivers who have ignored changing market trends in line with technology are venting their frustrations on Uber drivers. Four deaths have been reported.

This cannot be allowed to continue as it negates the spirit of competition. Uber is a legitimate business and offers a better choice. The Government must protect it. Traditional taxi operators will soon realise that fighting technology is not worthwhile especially where customers have the choice of a cheaper, more comfortable and efficient alternative.