No Official Strike Yet, But National Action Looms
Reporter – George April
Cape Town:- The Western Cape E-Hailing Association (WCEA) has broken its silence amid growing speculation over a nationwide strike involving app-based transport drivers.
In a statement issued today, WCEA clarified that while it strongly supports the concerns of drivers and operators facing exploitation, it has not officially sanctioned any strike action commencing on Monday, 21 July 2025.
The organization acknowledged the mounting frustrations within the industry and stated that while strike action may soon become inevitable due to the “arrogance and reluctance” of app companies to address reasonable demands, any such protest must be “used in a responsible manner.”
“We understand the pain and suffering of operators,” the statement reads. “Drivers in the e-hailing sector continue to face abuse by foreign-owned app companies. But we have not called for any official strike action.”
WCEA criticized the government’s lack of political will to intervene in ensuring fair pricing and decent labour conditions for e-hailing drivers. Despite numerous protests over the past decade, they say little has changed.
“Our past fragmented protests have raised awareness, but app companies continue to operate as they please,” WCEA said. “We need a coordinated national response, not knee-jerk reactions.”
The organisation says it will rather channel its efforts toward a national week of action, as proposed by its umbrella body, the National E-Hailing Federation of South Africa (NEFSA). This coordinated campaign is expected to apply greater pressure on both app platforms and the government to address ongoing exploitation.
“We urge drivers not to be divided or confused by reactionary calls. Change will only come through unity and national mobilization.”
The association stopped short of criticizing those who do choose to strike but made it clear that piecemeal protests have proven ineffective in the past.
As the debate over driver rights and fair pay continues, commuters across the country are advised to stay informed and prepare for possible disruptions in the coming weeks.
