<\/p>\n
Ride-hailing has evolved from a simple mobility service into a vital economic stabiliser for South Africans navigating a persistently tough labour market.<\/p>\n
The flagship Gig Economy Report, released by Bolt in partnership with Ipsos, reveals that digital platforms are increasingly serving as a gateway to \u201ceveryday entrepreneurship\u201d in a climate where formal job creation continues to lag.<\/p>\n
Listen\/read: Uber pledges R5bn at Saic and addresses fuel price hike<\/p>\n
The report highlights a significant shift in how South Africans earn, with 70% of gig workers now using ride-hailing as a secondary income source to buffer against rising living costs.<\/p>\n
For another 30%, these platforms have become their primary source of income.\u00a0This reliance is particularly pronounced among the youth.<\/p>\n
Listen\/read: SA unemployment crisis needs \u2018war effort\u2019, not incremental reform<\/p>\n
With youth unemployment consistently more than double the national average, many young South Africans turn to gig work to remain economically active during prolonged periods of searching for formal employment.<\/p>\n
\u2018Growing significance\u2019<\/p>\n
Soyinka Witness, strategy director at Ipsos, says: \u201cThis research highlights the growing significance of the gig economy in South Africa\u2019s labour market. A large proportion of participants are using ride-hailing to supplement [their] income, while some rely on it as a primary livelihood.<\/p>\n
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\u201cImportantly, many respondents report improved living standards and greater financial stability as a result,\u201d says Witness.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese findings point to the critical role that platform-based work is playing in supporting income resilience, entrepreneurship, and broader economic participation.\u201d<\/p>\n
Tangible gains in standard of living<\/p>\n
The impact of this shift is measurable at the household level.<\/p>\n
Over 90% of surveyed drivers reported an improvement in their standard of living, with earnings commonly funnelled into essentials such as food, rent, and education.<\/p>\n
One driver noted the shift in their circumstances: \u201cI was unemployed and not able to meet my monthly expenses. I\u2019m now able to pay.\u201d<\/p>\n
Another highlighted the professional growth found on the platform, stating: \u201cI\u2019ve learned how to manage clients and handle money better through this work.\u201d<\/p>\n
Policy and the future of gig work<\/p>\n
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Beyond individual earnings, the report underscores the role of these platforms as economic stabilisers.<\/p>\n
Bongani Nkosi of the Gauteng Department of Economic Development says they support a shared commitment to inclusive growth and micro-entrepreneurship.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe findings of this report reinforce the important role that digital platforms are playing in expanding access to economic opportunities across Gauteng,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Read: SA e-hailing drivers put in long hours to make a living<\/p>\n
As the sector enters a phase of formalisation, evidenced by the National Land Transport Amendment Act, the focus is shifting toward driver welfare, safety enhancements, and even e-mobility transitions to offset high fuel costs.<\/p>\n
For many, the move into the gig economy is a proactive choice for autonomy.<\/p>\n
Approximately 32% of respondents identified self-earned income and financial independence as the most important benefits of the work.<\/p>\n
As one participant put it: \u201cI like that I can earn daily \u2013 it feels good not depending on someone else\u2019s schedule.\u201d<\/p>\n
#Ridehailing #contributes #income #stability #gig #workers<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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