By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Supplied
Johannesburg — A landmark public–private partnership between Uber Eats and the Gauteng Department of Economic Development (GDED) has surpassed R1 billion in revenue generated for township merchants, marking a decisive moment for inclusive growth and digital transformation in Gauteng’s township economies.
Celebrated at a Township Economy event attended by entrepreneurs, delivery partners and senior leaders from government and the private sector, the milestone reflects the tangible outcomes of a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in May 2023. The agreement was designed to operationalise the Gauteng Township Economic Development Act by digitising township-based enterprises and expanding access to broader markets.
From local trade to citywide demand
Since inception, the partnership has on boarded more than 2,000 township food businesses onto the Uber Eats platform, equipping them with training, tools and in-app visibility to scale beyond walk-in trade. In parallel, over 7,500 delivery partners have been on boarded and trained, establishing reliable last-mile networks within township areas.
The results are significant: over R1 billion in merchant revenue and more than R150 million in earnings for delivery partners, driven by exposure to millions of eaters across Gauteng. The impact demonstrates how digitisation can translate policy intent into measurable economic participation.
Turning policy into progress
Speaking at the event, Saskia de Jongh, General Manager for Uber Eats EMEA, underscored the importance of aligning access with infrastructure and demand.
“Township economies have always been rich in entrepreneurial talent,” she said. “What this partnership reflects is what happens when access, demand and delivery infrastructure come together in the right way. This is not about technology for its own sake; it’s about creating sustainable pathways for businesses and earners to grow on their own terms.”
Uber Eats has supported this progress with over R250 million in investment, spanning merchant on boarding, hardware, in-app marketing tools, delivery bikes and hands-on training—ensuring participation is durable and scalable.
Government’s vision realised
MEC for Economic Development Lebogang Maile highlighted the broader economic significance of the milestone and the power of collaboration.
“This partnership demonstrates what is possible when government policy is matched with delivery capability and trusted technology partners like Uber Eats,” said Maile. “Township economies are central to Gauteng’s growth, and through Uber Eats’ digital platform we have expanded access to markets and created real earning opportunities.”
He added: “The impact we are celebrating today reflects the entrepreneurs, delivery partners and institutions who are building a stronger, more inclusive economy from the ground up. We are proud of this partnership and look forward to deepening its impact in 2026 and beyond.”
A community-rooted model for the future
The celebration also recognised outstanding township merchants and delivery partners, and featured a plaque unveiling commemorating the partnership between Uber Eats and the Gauteng Provincial Government.
Looking ahead, Ntsoki Nsibanyoni, General Manager for Uber Eats Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasised continuity and scale. “The outcomes achieved to date prove a model that is sustainable, scalable and grounded in real economic participation—offering valuable lessons for inclusive growth through collaboration and digitisation.”
As Gauteng continues to invest in township economies, the Uber Eats–GDED partnership stands as evidence that when ambition meets execution, long-standing barriers can give way to opportunity, resilience and shared prosperity.
