Russian ride-hailing app Yango suspended in Togo after just four months
On Tuesday, October 22, Togo’s Ministry of Road, Air, and Rail Transport announced the suspension of Yango, a ride-hailing platform owned by Russian tech company Yandex, citing security concerns and non-compliance with administrative procedures.
In its statement, the ministry expressed worries about user safety and the necessity for order and legality, declaring Yango’s activities illegal. “The activities of the operator YANGO are therefore suspended throughout the national territory,” it stated, highlighting that these issues pose significant risks to the country, particularly concerning user security without adequate controls.
Yango’s suspension comes only four months after its launch in Togo in June 2024. Despite this setback, Yango clarified that it operates independently of Yandex and is currently in discussions with Togolese authorities, expressing optimism about reaching a solution that would allow it to resume operations.
The ride-hailing service has faced regulatory hurdles across Africa. In 2023, Yango was suspended in Cameroon after local transport unions raised concerns about unfair competition and regulatory non-compliance. Similarly, in September 2022, it received warnings in Cameroon regarding licensing and tax registration, although it was later granted a temporary license.
Additionally, Yango faced a ban in Casablanca, Morocco, three months after its launch in April 2023 due to a lack of proper authorization and unlicensed drivers.
Beyond ride-hailing, Yango also offers food delivery services through Yango Deli and has launched a logistics startup called Yango Delivery, which introduced Cargo Express in March 2024 to facilitate the transport of large items across Africa.
As Yango navigates these regulatory challenges, it is also facing increased competition. InDrive recently launched its ride-hailing service in Lusaka, Zambia, waiving commission fees for the first six months, intensifying the competitive landscape alongside established players like Bolt and Yango.
