E-Hailing Strike Looms as NEFSA Demands End to ‘Exploitative Conditions’

(The Post News)- The National E-Hailing Federation of South Africa (NEFSA) has issued a warning of an imminent nationwide e-hailing strike, citing what it calls exploitative working conditions in the industry.

Among their key demands are the immediate restructuring of the pricing index, an end to unjust driver deactivations, and the suspension of vehicle phase-out policies.

Speaking to SAfm, NEFSA President Elijah Uhuru Lekgowane said there has been a 35% drop in fares since 2016. He added that many drivers are removed from platforms like Bolt and Uber without due process.

Lekgowane also criticized the vehicle phase-out policies, saying they place an undue financial burden on drivers.

“We are talking about the phasing out of vehicles that are five years old, despite the fact that these vehicles are still under installment payments,” he explained.

He added that when companies phase out such vehicles, drivers are often left with significant debts.
“What then happens to you who owes the banks? How are you going to be able to pay the banks? We need that system to be eradicated,” he added

E-hailing platforms require vehicles to meet certain quality standards, but Lekgowane argued that the current policy is flawed.

“There are cars that are now bought in 2020 and today it has less than 80 000 km in it. How would you then qualify your argument to say that a vehicle is not fit to be driving people?” He asked.

He emphasized that drivers also value customer safety and are calling for proper consultations regarding vehicle phase-out policies.

In light of the potential strike, Bolt and Uber commuters across the country have been advised to seek alternative transport options.

Meanwhile, both Uber and Bolt, speaking to IOL, said they remain committed to supporting drivers and improving the experience for all users.

“We are constantly working to improve the driver experience—whether through fare reviews, new safety features, or product improvements,” said Uber

Bolt South Africa’s Senior General Manager, Lerato Motsoeneng, urged for peaceful and responsible conduct during this period.

“Bolt remains open to meaningful discussions that lead to practical and balanced solutions in the best interests of both drivers and riders,” she said.