Africa will see drone shipping via Zipline and Jumia

Zipline will be integrated with the distribution network of Africa-focused on-demand delivery for e-commerce Jumia.

The pilot program was launched a few months ago in Ghana. Zipline drone was successful in delivering goods to Jumia's remote locations, 85 kilometers from where it took off, in less than an hour. All test participants watched the drone's flight in real time. The project is scheduled to expand to Côte d'Ivoire and Nigeria in the near future, with other countries next in line.

“Whether consumers are ordering electronics, fashion, health and beauty products or other categories, Zipline's instant logistics system will provide quick and convenient access. This will support Jumia's commitment to sustainability and innovation and provide much-needed access to rural and remote areas where traditional delivery services face challenges,” said Apoorva Kumar, EVP of Jumia, group chief operating officer.

Jumia's logistics network includes more than 3,000 drop-off and pick-up stations in 11 countries. The company has a current market capitalization of $741 million, according to Refinitiv. Zipline designs, manufactures and operates the world's largest automated delivery service, which has made nearly 371,000 deliveries containing more than five million vaccines and other healthcare products.