South African E-Hailing App Shesha Launches in Sandton

Shesha, a new South African-owned e-hailing service, has launched in Sandton with the aim of revolutionizing the local ride-hailing market. The app, which is a collaboration between the minibus taxi industry and e-hailing operators, promises enhanced security features and an opportunity for drivers to own a stake in the company.

The service uses fingerprint ID, facial recognition, and banking information to verify drivers upon registration. Riders will experience consistent and fair pricing, and can request rides from anywhere in Gauteng. Shesha also offers a cashless system through a secure wallet for added safety, as well as an emergency ride option for customers with a history of 10 or more trips.

One of the key features of Shesha is the equity ownership stake it offers to drivers through the Gauteng e-Hailing Services Trust. This trust provides access to medical, life, and disability insurance, as well as a bursary fund for drivers. The major stakeholders of Shesha include the South African National Taxi Council in Gauteng (Santaco Gauteng), the Gauteng National Taxi Alliance (GNTA), and the Gauteng Department of Transport.

"Shesha is founded by a consortium of stakeholders with experience in the South African transport industry," said a spokesperson for the company. "We have signed a memorandum of understanding with Santaco and GNTA to foster closer cooperation and enhance safety in the industry."

The company is currently on-boarding new drivers in Gauteng, with over 600 already registered on the platform. Shesha charges a 20% commission, which is lower than the industry standard. The app is available on Android initially, with plans to launch on Apple devices as well.

Why this matters: The launch of Shesha signifies a new spirit of cooperation between the taxi industry and e-hailing services in South Africa. It also represents an effort to keep the wealth generated by ride-hailing within the country and provide benefits to local drivers.

The launch of Shesha comes amid ongoing tensions between e-hailing drivers and the conventional taxi industry in Gauteng, which have led to incidents of violence in the past. The Gauteng Department of Transport sees the app as a way to mitigate safety challenges and build a more robust transportation economy in the province. "The memorandum of understanding between the department and the taxi industry is essential for maintaining the safety of our communities," said a department spokesperson.

Key Takeaways

• Shesha, a new South African-owned e-hailing service, has launched in Sandton.
• Shesha offers enhanced security features and driver equity ownership through a trust.
• Shesha is a collaboration between the minibus taxi industry and e-hailing operators.
• Shesha charges a 20% commission, lower than the industry standard.
• The launch aims to mitigate safety challenges and build a robust transportation economy.