"Some Uber and Bolt drivers embark on strike", 9 March 2021

Uber and Bolt drivers on Tuesday went offline in protest over high rates and safety concerns, among other issues.

“We are aware of a protest taking place today by a group of e-hailing drivers," an Uber spokesperson told Business Insider SA. "Drivers are diverse in how they use the Uber app and it would be difficult for an individual or group to holistically represent every driver on the app.” 

Bolt also confirmed that some of its drivers are also not working.

“Bolt is aware that a small number of drivers in Johannesburg are choosing to stay offline in protest, today, Tuesday 9 March 2021,” the e-hailing service told Business Insider. “Bolt respects every driver’s right to protest, and asks drivers to do so legally, peacefully, and without impacting the rights of other drivers who choose to continue to operate and earn an income.”

According to a Newzroom Africa report, the drivers are striking in protest at "unsustainable rates".

There has been discontent among Bolt drivers since July last year, when the company first introduced its Bolt Go product, with fares that are 20% cheaper than standard rates. They launched a strike in protest last year.

In November, Uber followed suit with its cut-price version, with trips starting at R19...

Among the drivers’ other grievances are high service fees the e-hailing companies charge their drivers, safety concerns for both the drivers and their clients and the unfair blocking of drivers, Newzroom Africa reports...

“Bolt engages with drivers that use the platform through a variety of channels, and is aware of drivers’ concerns about various issues,” the company said...