E-Hailing Platforms Under Pressure as NEFSA Plans Nationwide Protest
Uber and Bolt respond to e-hailing driver strike amid growing unrest in South Africa’s transport sector. The strike, planned by the National E-Hailing Federation of South Africa (NEFSA), has drawn national attention to long-standing issues such as driver earnings, platform commission rates, safety, and working conditions.
The situation has intensified as e-hailing drivers prepare for a possible nationwide shutdown, with both Uber South Africa and Bolt South Africa issuing public statements addressing the concerns and affirming their positions.
NEFSA Strike Raises Sector-Wide Concerns
The NEFSA strike aims to draw attention to the hardships faced by e-hailing drivers in the country. Drivers have raised complaints about high platform commissions, lack of safety features, and poor support during disputes. These concerns have led to heightened calls for collective action.
According to NEFSA, the planned nationwide protest will serve as a unified demand for fair treatment, transparent policies, and a review of fee structures that many drivers say are exploitative.
Uber South Africa Responds to Driver Demands
In response to the proposed shutdown, Uber South Africa issued a statement recognizing the seriousness of the situation. A company spokesperson stated:
“We are aware of the article that was published and acknowledge the concerns that have been raised. Drivers remain at the heart of everything we do.”
The company further emphasized its ongoing engagement with the driver community and listed several initiatives aimed at improving the experience on the platform.
“We are committed to engaging more with drivers as we are constantly working to improve the driver experience – whether it’s through fare reviews, introducing new safety features, or investing in product improvements,” the spokesperson added.
Uber’s approach highlights an intention to strengthen its relationship with drivers while navigating the evolving dynamics of the gig economy.
Bolt South Africa Calls for Dialogue and Peace
Meanwhile, Bolt South Africa expressed its awareness of the upcoming e-hailing driver protest and echoed its support for peaceful, constructive engagement. Lerato Motsoeneng, Bolt’s senior general manager, told IOL:
“Bolt South Africa acknowledges the concerns raised by members of the e-hailing driver community and is aware of the upcoming nationwide protest action announced by the NEFSA.”
She urged all parties to maintain calm and focus on finding balanced solutions.
“We urge all parties involved to engage peacefully and responsibly during this period. Bolt remains open to meaningful discussions that lead to practical and balanced solutions in the best interest of both drivers and riders.”
Bolt also assured its users and drivers that it would continue monitoring the situation and implement measures to limit disruption while ensuring everyone’s safety.
Drivers Speak Out: “We Are Strapped for Cash”
E-hailing driver Sibusiso Msomi from Durban shared his personal experience with local media. Though he supports the idea of the strike, he also acknowledged the financial burden that a shutdown would place on already struggling drivers.
“We are strapped for cash as it is due to high commissions and extortion from taxi associations. A shutdown would affect us very badly financially, but I understand the need, and I would join in.”
Sibusiso’s remarks reflect the core dilemma faced by many in the e-hailing community: the need for systemic change weighed against the daily struggle to make ends meet.
Key Issues Raised by E-Hailing Drivers
The e-hailing driver protest centers around several major complaints, including:
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High Commission Rates: Drivers report losing up to 25% of their fares to platform fees.
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Safety Risks: Incidents of hijackings and theft have increased, with many drivers saying more safety features are needed.
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Unfair Deactivations: Drivers have raised concerns about being deactivated without adequate investigation or recourse.
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Lack of Benefits: Unlike traditional employment, drivers receive no medical, insurance, or pension benefits.
These grievances have sparked calls for regulatory reform and better labor protections across the National Lottery South Africa and related services, though Uber and Bolt operate in the private sector.
Government Response and Legal Context
While the National E-Hailing Association continues to organize protests, government response has been minimal. Transport authorities have acknowledged the concerns in previous statements but have yet to put forth a comprehensive plan.
South African labor laws remain unclear when it comes to gig workers, with ongoing debates about whether e-hailing drivers should be classified as independent contractors or employees with rights and benefits.
Disruption Expected, but Not Confirmed
At the time of writing, it remains uncertain whether the NEFSA strike will materialize as planned. Both Uber and Bolt have announced contingency plans to ensure the safety of riders and drivers should the protest occur.
Both platforms advised passengers to prepare for potential delays or reduced availability, especially in metropolitan areas such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban.
A Call for Industry Reform
The strike, whether successful or not, has once again brought the focus back to South Africa’s evolving gig economy. As Uber South Africa and Bolt South Africa continue to operate at scale, the pressure is mounting for these platforms to address longstanding issues that drivers say affect not only their incomes but their dignity.
Industry experts predict that continued unrest in the e-hailing sector may eventually push legislators to introduce stronger labor protections, fairer commission structures, and mandatory safety protocols.
Conclusion
As Uber and Bolt respond to e-hailing driver strike developments, the eyes of the nation remain on the outcome of this movement. The drivers’ demands highlight an urgent need for better support, more equitable compensation, and recognition of their role in powering South Africa’s urban transport economy.
Whether or not the planned NEFSA strike goes ahead, the messages from the drivers have been loud and clear. The ball is now in the court of e-hailing platforms and policymakers to deliver real change.
Here are five mainstream media sources from South Africa that regularly report on transport, labour issues, and national developments, including e-hailing protests:
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IOL (Independent Online)
Covers a wide range of national news including transport, labour unrest, and technology.
🔗 https://www.iol.co.za -
News24
South Africa’s largest digital news platform, providing comprehensive national coverage.
🔗 https://www.news24.com -
TimesLIVE (Sunday Times)
A leading national publication known for in-depth reporting on labour, business, and policy.
🔗 https://www.timeslive.co.za -
eNCA (eNews Channel Africa)
Broadcast and digital news service with frequent reports on strikes and transport sector news.
🔗 https://www.enca.com -
The Citizen
Regularly covers e-hailing updates, community issues, and national protest developments.
🔗 https://www.citizen.co.za
