New app to link artisans with customers

Ujuzy Managing Director Kimani Gitau.

Kenyans can now find the right service provider following the launch of a web and mobile app platform that helps homes and companies to source for reliable artisans.

With Ujuzy, the founders hope to make it easier for people to access services such as plumbing that have been difficult to get.  

Ujuzy Managing Director Kimani Gitau said there are currently about 2,000 professional service providers on the platform including carpenters, hairdressers and mechanics.

“We are taking away the burden of searching for experienced and reliable professional artisans in a hassle-free model to deliver critical services to companies and homes,” he said.

Individuals request a service by first downloading the Ujuzy app on Google or Apple's App store. Users may also opt to log in through Ujuzy’s website.

Mr Gitau said the idea to start Ujuzy was born out of his difficulty in finding a reliable plumber when he was a project manager of a hotel under construction.

The company’s aim is to hit 10,000 service providers by the end of this year. Ideally, they plan to have a maximum of 30,000 professionals on the platform.

“Ujuzy is free to the professionals," Gitau said.

He explained that the company will be keen on verification, including requiring professionals to have certificates of good conduct.

At some point, they plan to introduce bond insurance for professionals such as plumbers who will be visiting people’s homes just in case they cause any damages.

Gitau said Ujuzy was borne out of the realisation that for most people, getting a service provider who can deliver work in good time and do a good job is difficult.

“The biggest challenges customers face are delays, with the proverbial ‘kuja kesho’ phrase and poor services that costs households and companies time and resources,” he said.