Shesha addresses the reports of intimidation and extortion
As the e-hailing sector struggles with reports of intimidation and extortion, Shesha unites key stakeholders to tackle safety concerns.
Shesha e-hailing app is the new South African-owned e-hailing platform that was established to address the historical conflict between the taxi industry and e-hailing services. The app has been faced with backlash since its launch on May 1.
On August 8, Shesha hosted a media briefing at Halfway Toyota in Fourways, inviting industry stakeholders, representatives from the mini-bus taxi sector, and members of the media to discuss pressing challenges faced by e-hailing drivers.
Read more: e-Hailing taxi driver arrested at shopping centre
The session aimed to address issues of intimidation and extortion reported by drivers using the app, fostering an informed dialogue on operational challenges within the industry.
Portia Keleketso, project manager and managing director at Shesha, opened the discussion by providing an overview of the current state of Shesha e-hailing services within the Gauteng taxi industry.
“There have been reported intimidation incidents of harassment and extortion targeting other e-hailing companies allegedly perpetrated by people claiming to be from Shesha or representing Shesha,” said Keleketsho.
Also read: Pangolin rescued by an e-hailing driver
“The issue of harassment and intimidation has been addressed collectively by the stakeholders. We aim to approach both drivers and customers with respect and dignity.”
Representatives from the Gauteng taxi associations, including Santaco, Gauteng National Taxi Alliance, and the Gauteng e-hailing services, voiced their support for the initiative, reflecting a shared commitment to creating a safer driving environment.
The briefing highlighted troubling reports of other e-hailing company drivers being forced into using the Shesha app, namely Uber and Bolt.
Santaco national spokesperson Rebecca Phala explained, “We have found that some of our members have truly been found to be behind these acts, however, we want to make it clear that our associations had no wrong intentions when entering the e-hailing market. People who partake in these acts are met with severe consequences of being suspended from the association.”
In response to these challenges, Shesha introduced comprehensive training programmes for drivers, aiming to instil professionalism and ensure fair treatment for customers. The app also boasts security protocols, including fingerprint ID, facial recognition, and bank information verification to ensure driver reliability.
“Shesha remains committed to creating a safe environment for drivers and passengers alike while actively seeking to tackle the challenges that have arisen since its launch. The journey ahead may be fraught with difficulties, but the collective commitment from all parties involved promotes hope for a more transparent, secure, and user-friendly ride-hailing experience,” added Phala.
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