Can South Africa’s new e-hailing service succeed against Uber?

Africa Daily

“If the leadership of the minibus taxi sector is prepared to be patient and invest in research and development, absolutely, they stand a chance” – Dr. Mathetha Mokonyama, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research

When international e-hailing services Uber and Bolt arrived in South Africa about a decade ago, they claimed a massive chunk of the metered taxi market.

This left local taxi operators fuming, with tensions leading to the loss of life in some parts of the country.

But now, South Africa’s main taxi associations, the National Taxi Alliance and the South African National Taxi Council, are responding with innovation of their own.

They call it Shesha, a downloadable app that enables you to order a ride from the comfort of your home.

So, today our presenter Mpho Lakaje is on the road, testing the new local service.

He attempts to find out if it stands a chance against well established players with deep pockets.

Guests: Rebecca Phala, Irene Hlabangwane and Dr. Mathetha Mokonyama.