Residents of Soweto, South Africa, were left without the convenience of Bolt and Uber services on Monday, 17 July 2023, as a temporary shutdown was initiated by the Soweto e-hailing association.
Soweto e-hailing shutdown: Reasons behind the absence of Uber, Bolt on Monday, 17 July 2023
The move aims to draw attention to pressing concerns within the industry, including driver safety, criminal activity, and fare rates, per Jaca News.
The shutdown, scheduled to last for three days, reflects the association’s determination to advocate for improved security measures and fairer conditions for drivers.
Safety Concerns and Driver Exploitation
Thato Ramaila, Chairperson of the Soweto e-hailing association, highlighted the primary reasons behind the shutdown. He expressed deep concerns over the rising instances of criminal activity, including robberies and hijackings, which pose significant threats to drivers.
Ramaila emphasised that these dangerous circumstances have prompted the association to demand stricter security measures for both drivers and clients, ensuring a safer environment for all stakeholders.
Demands for Improved Security and Fair Compensation
Among the association’s demands is an urgent need for enhanced security measures integrated into the e-hailing applications used by riders.
These measures would work towards minimising the risk of criminal incidents during trips. Additionally, the association is seeking fairer compensation for drivers, including a revision of the current commission structure that imposes a 25% commission on drivers and an additional commission deducted from the fare paid by the client.
This restructuring aims to alleviate the financial burden on drivers while ensuring a more equitable distribution of profits.
Peaceful Protest and Client Safety
To draw attention to their concerns, the Soweto e-hailing association called for all users to participate in the protest by refraining from using the e-hailing apps.
The association urged clients to switch off their phones and avoid requesting rides during the shutdown period.
This collective action serves as a means to emphasize the importance of client safety and the need for proactive measures to address security challenges within the industry.
Collaborative Solutions and Future Engagement
While the shutdown disrupts the daily routines of e-hailing service users in Soweto, the association’s intentions are focused on initiating dialogue and prompting necessary changes.
The temporary suspension of services aims to compel e-hailing platforms to address grievances and engage in constructive discussions with the association to find sustainable solutions.
By advocating for improved safety measures and fairer conditions, the association seeks to create a more secure and mutually beneficial environment for drivers and clients.