Gauteng’s township economy has recorded a major boost following a partnership between Uber Eats and the Gauteng Department of Economic Development that has generated more than R1 billion in revenue for township merchants since its launch in 2023.
The partnership was established through a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at supporting the implementation of the Gauteng Township Economic Development Act by digitising township-based food businesses and connecting them to a wider customer base through online delivery services. The initiative has helped shift many township businesses from relying only on walk-in customers to accessing demand from across cities.
According to the latest figures, more than 2,000 township merchants have been onboarded onto the Uber Eats platform. At the same time, over 7,500 delivery partners have been trained and integrated into township delivery networks, creating new income opportunities across communities. The partnership has so far generated over R1 billion in revenue for township merchants and more than R150 million in earnings for delivery partners.
Uber Eats has also invested over R250 million into the programme, funding onboarding processes, digital tools, marketing support, delivery equipment, and training aimed at ensuring long-term sustainability for participating businesses and delivery partners.
Gauteng MEC for Economic Development Lebogang Maile said the partnership highlights how government policy can translate into real economic participation when combined with strong private sector implementation. The initiative has expanded market access for township entrepreneurs while helping to grow local employment opportunities.
The Gauteng Provincial Government and Uber Eats have indicated that the programme will continue expanding into 2026, with a focus on onboarding more township businesses and strengthening digital participation in the province’s economy.
The partnership is increasingly being viewed as a model for inclusive economic growth, demonstrating how collaboration between government and private sector partners can unlock opportunities in township economies.
