Fatshimetrie released a comprehensive report earlier this year, shedding light on the state of safety in e-hailing services in South Africa. The findings were both shocking and concerning, revealing that a striking 73 percent of users do not feel safe when using e-hailing services. This alarming statistic underscores a pressing issue in the industry – the lack of perceived safety among users.
Moreover, the report highlighted that 22 percent of respondents had experienced harassment or verbal abuse during a trip, with 8 percent facing such incidents frequently. It was also revealed that nearly half of the participants knew someone who had been harassed or assaulted by a driver. These distressing revelations emphasize the urgent need for enhanced safety measures in e-hailing services to instill confidence and ensure the security of users.
In response to these critical findings, Bolt’s Global Safety Campaign has been introduced to raise awareness of safety features and initiatives aimed at preventing harassment and violence. Such initiatives are particularly crucial in a country like South Africa, where gender-based violence and femicide are significant challenges. The launch of this campaign in Gauteng, the most populous province in the country, is a strategic move given its unique economic and demographic profile, which directly impacts crime levels.
The issue of urban mobility is a pressing concern not only in Gauteng but also across the African continent. With the rapid urbanization sweeping across African cities, there is a growing need to address the challenges posed by infrastructure, transportation, and safety. The lack of sustainable public transportation infrastructure in many African cities has contributed to high rates of road fatalities, making investment in urban mobility a critical priority.
Investing in sustainable urban mobility is not only essential for economic growth but also for achieving spatial inclusion in cities. The legacy of apartheid spatial planning in the Gauteng City Region has created economic disparities, with certain areas hosting limited economic activity and opportunities. In response, the Gauteng Provincial Government has taken steps to promote inclusive economic growth through initiatives like the Township Economic Development Act.
By prioritizing safety in mobility and investing in township development, the Gauteng Department of Economic Development is working towards a more inclusive and sustainable economic landscape. Ensuring safe and efficient urban mobility is not just a matter of convenience but a fundamental element in the transformation and growth of cities.
In conclusion, the state of safety in e-hailing services in South Africa reflects broader challenges in urban mobility and economic development. By addressing these issues through targeted initiatives and investments, we can create safer, more inclusive cities that promote economic growth and social well-being.