SA e-hailing drivers embrace new transport law, fear costs

THE long-awaited National Land Transport Amendment Act (NLTAA), which formally recognises e-hailing as part of South Africa's public transport system, has been gazetted.

- SIPHESIHLE BUTHELEZI

While the government states that the law will strengthen safety and fairness in the sector, unions and driver representatives caution that compliance costs may weigh heavily on workers already under financial strain.

The Department of Transport announced that the Act introduces e-hailing as an additional service type, ending years in which the sector was treated as illegal by other operators.

It requires all vehicles to be licensed, branded, and fitted with panic buttons, while app companies must be registered and face fines of up to R100 000 or two years in prison if they allow unlicensed operators on their platforms.

“The panic button for commuters will assist with crime detection and enable a rapid response by law enforcement or tracking companies,” the department stated. Provincial Regulatory Entity (PRE) offices will process all licence applications, and the department will begin nationwide workshops with operators and officials next week.

Edwin Mkhize, COSATU KZN provincial secretary, described the recognition of e-hailing as “a positive first step” but warned that it does not resolve the deeper exploitation drivers face.

“Drivers remain vulnerable to exploitation by platforms that classify them as ‘independent contractors’ without labour rights. What workers need is full protection under labour laws as well, including fair wages, collective bargaining, social security and job security,’ Mkhize said.