The National E-Hailing Federation of South Africa (NEFSA) has issued a warning that a nationwide strike by e-hailing drivers is imminent, as frustration over poor working conditions, shrinking earnings, and alleged government inaction reaches a boiling point.
Speaking on behalf of NEFSA, President Elijah Uhuru Lekgowane confirmed that national coordination is underway to stage what he described as “the mother of all protest actions” against the e-hailing industry’s major players – including Uber and Bolt.
“Drivers can’t continue under the current circumstances,” Lekgowane said.
“We’ve seen a 35% slashing of fares since 2016, and now drivers are being deactivated without due process. This is unsustainable.”
Drivers demand industry reform
The strike action, expected to roll out across multiple provinces, follows threats of a shutdown in Johannesburg, where local e-hailing drivers have already signaled plans to take their vehicles off the roads this month.
At the heart of their grievances are low fare rates, high commission percentages, and vehicle deactivation policies that drivers say are crippling their livelihoods.
Lekgowane said many drivers are forced to work excessively long hours, often sleeping in their cars, just to make ends meet.
NEFSA has issued a list of urgent demands, including:
- Immediate restructuring of the pricing index
- Halt to unjust deactivations and threats against protestors
- Review of vehicle age restrictions, which force drivers to retire cars still under finance
- Greater transparency and accountability from e-hailing platforms
- Government intervention and regulation
“Right now, we are running a charity and can’t afford it anymore,” Lekgowane added.
“If we can’t make earnings, these companies shouldn’t make profits either. It’s as simple as that.”
Government under fire
NEFSA has also directed sharp criticism at the South African government, accusing it of turning a blind eye – or worse, colluding – with global e-hailing companies at the expense of local workers.
“Our government seems to be conniving and conspiring with these companies,” Lekgowane said.
“They allow these platforms to operate unchecked while our members suffer.”
The federation says this upcoming strike differs from previous protests in that it will be nationally coordinated, with provincial leaders convening soon to finalise action plans.
“Previously, provinces acted alone. This time, we’re united,” said Lekgowane.
“We won’t say the strike is tomorrow, but what I can guarantee is: it’s coming.”
Impact on commuters
With the potential for mass service disruptions, commuters in major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria are being urged to make alternative transport arrangements.
E-hailing services like Uber and Bolt have become a cornerstone of urban mobility in South Africa, providing a flexible option for millions of users – especially as the cost of owning a car rises.
Yet, as demand grows, drivers say they are bearing the cost of platform growth without sharing in the profits.
What’s next?
A national coordinating committee is scheduled to meet soon to confirm the strike date, logistics, and scale of participation.
If NEFSA’s warnings hold true, South Africa could be facing one of its largest e-hailing protests to date.
“This is not just about drivers,” said Lekgowane.
“It’s about fairness, dignity, and survival.”
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