Yango has officially launched a food delivery service in Senegal, expanding its existing offerings of ride-hailing and parcel delivery within its SuperApp. This strategic move not only strengthens Yango’s foothold in Senegal’s digital economy but also heightens competition in the rapidly growing online food delivery sector of the country.
To support local businesses and encourage growth, Yango is waiving commission fees for partner restaurants. This initiative aims to boost order volumes for these establishments while simultaneously lowering their operational costs. By alleviating the financial burden typically associated with delivery services, Yango hopes to attract a diverse array of eateries and food vendors, ultimately providing consumers with a wider selection of dining options.
Yango first entered the Senegalese market in December 2021, primarily focusing on transportation services. With the addition of food delivery to its portfolio, the company is working towards offering a more comprehensive digital solution that caters to the varied needs of its users.
In March 2024, Yango further expanded its service offerings by introducing “Cargo Express,” a feature designed to enhance the delivery of large and bulky items across various African cities. This service is currently available in major urban centers such as Accra, Abidjan, and Lusaka, and includes options like mover assistance and ten minutes of complimentary loading and unloading time, ensuring a smooth and efficient delivery experience.
The online food delivery market in Senegal is on a rapid growth trajectory, with forecasts predicting a 10.07% increase from 2025 to 2029, ultimately reaching a market volume of $269.60 million by 2029. This growth is fueled by factors such as urbanization, evolving consumer preferences, and increased internet penetration, which has now exceeded 89% in urban areas. Yango’s entry into this expanding market introduces a new competitive dynamic, challenging established players like Glovo and Jumia Food. By waiving commission fees for partner restaurants, Yango aims to differentiate itself and create a more attractive platform for both consumers and local businesses.
While Yango is making strides in Senegal, it has encountered regulatory challenges in other African nations. For instance, in October 2024, Togo’s Ministry of Road, Air, and Rail Transport suspended Yango’s operations due to security concerns and alleged non-compliance with administrative procedures. The ministry indicated that Yango had been operating without the necessary authorizations since June 2024, resulting in a nationwide suspension of its activities. This incident highlights the critical importance of adhering to local regulations and securing the appropriate approvals when entering new markets.
By integrating food delivery into its SuperApp, Yango is providing users with a seamless experience that allows them to access multiple services from a single platform. This convenience is likely to resonate with tech-savvy consumers and could enhance customer retention rates. For local restaurants and food vendors, Yango’s platform presents an opportunity to broaden their customer reach without the financial strain of commission fees. This initiative is particularly advantageous for small and medium-sized enterprises seeking to establish a presence in the digital marketplace.
Looking ahead, Yango plans to onboard additional restaurants and expand its service offerings to include food stores, further diversifying its portfolio. As the online food delivery market in Senegal continues to evolve, Yango’s strategic initiatives position it as a formidable competitor, with the potential to reshape industry dynamics while positively impacting the local economy. Nonetheless, Yango’s recent suspension in Togo highlights the challenges of navigating the regulatory landscapes in various countries. Adhering to local laws and securing the required authorizations will be crucial for Yango’s continued success and growth in the African market.
