E-hailing operators happy that pricing & safety concerns addressed with Amendment Bill

E-hailing operators and platforms have welcomed the signing into law of the amended National Land Transport Act 5 of 2009.

They say it means regulation of these services in South Africa is finally within reach.

Now that the President has signed the Amendment Bill, regulations will be submitted for certification and then to the Minister for approval, said Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga.

"This means that the e-hailing services operators will move away from the interim usage of charter permits and meter taxi operating licences, to operating licences."

Sindisiwe Chikunga, Minister of Transport

The Money Show speaks to Melithemba Mnguni, Secretary of the E-Hailing Partners Council (EPCO).

Mnguni highlights the implications this 'long overdue' development has particularly for pricing, and for the safety of drivers.

"We're excited... We had protested for this Bill to be signed into law, as it lays ground for the regulation that we need so much. This calls for a new era, because there's been a cloud of illegitimacy hanging over our heads as e-hailing operators."

Melithemba Mnguni, Secretary - E-Hailing Partners Council

When it comes to pricing, they have felt that they're underpaid, Mnguni says.

Along with that, what he says is overflooding of the market has also impacted their earnings.

"Now, the Bill keeps the responsibility of pricing with the Minister, which is something the e-hailing platforms were against. All along the platforms were the ones that came up with pricing, yet they don't carry any responsibility as far as operational costs are concerned."

"With regard to safety regulations, we've also been crying out for proper security measures in terms of screening users... Now that responsibility is also left with the Minister and the regulatory body to make sure that the e-hailing platforms vet the users."

Melithemba Mnguni, Secretary - E-Hailing Partners Council