Drivers for Bolt and Uber in South Africa are threatening to stage a shutdown in protest of safety concerns and low pay. While the strike has yet to gain full momentum, it has the potential to significantly reduce the number of available ride-hailing drivers, leaving many passengers stranded.
Read: Samsung Freestyle Review: Projecting the future?
Vhatuka Mbelengwa, spokesperson for e-hailing services, acknowledged that many drivers are expected to switch off their apps in support of the protest. However, he emphasized that a complete halt in services is unlikely and that disruptions may occur. Mbelengwa explained that the strike is not a coordinated event with a specific start and end point but rather a sentiment within the industry to address the ongoing issues faced by drivers.
The demands of the ride-hailing drivers include industry regulations and a reduction in the excessively high commissions charged by companies like Uber. They also raise concerns about safety issues such as hijacking, illegal vehicle impoundment, and targeting of ride-hailing drivers by taxi drivers.
Mbelengwa expressed the belief that striking drivers will not engage in intimidation tactics towards those who continue to work during the shutdown. However, given the large number of drivers expected to participate, he acknowledged the possibility of such incidents occurring. He emphasized that the strike is a nationwide event and while it may not have full momentum immediately, participants will strive to build momentum over time.
Takura Malaba, Bolt’s regional manager for East and Southern Africa, stated that the company is aware of the planned strike and supports the drivers’ right to protest. He urged drivers to conduct their protests legally and peacefully, without infringing on the rights of other drivers who choose to continue working. Malaba highlighted Bolt’s ongoing efforts to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to address crimes such as hijacking and illegal impoundment. The safety of passengers and drivers using the Bolt platform remains a top priority for the company.
Malaba also mentioned that Bolt regularly explores ways to increase driver earnings, including incentivizing passengers, introducing new service categories, and intensifying marketing efforts to attract more customers.
At the time of writing, no comment has been received from Uber regarding the impending strike.
