Reliable and cost-effective long-distance transport in Kenya: a mobile-based technology carpooling solution

Abstract

Carpooling is a form of organisation of car use among several individuals that involve their sharing of costs. It reduces their overall transport costs while reducing the number of cars on the roads. The achievement of the latter is the major emphasis of this study. The study aims to develop a mobile application to promote carpooling and hence reduce the overall congestion on Kenyan roads. Several key objectives will guide the paper, including evaluating the modes of carpooling and their use of technology. Additional objectives include the development of a mobile-based prototype that addresses carpooling and evaluating the effectiveness of the prototype developed as far as carpooling is concerned. The prototype developed will enable users of the mobile app to share their private cars with others at a fee. Car users will be able to post a request on the system to access carpooling services.