Bolt partners South African drivers, others to promote safety
South Africa’s ride-hailing platform, Bolt, hosted its inaugural Driver-Led Safety Summit in Cape Town to tackle the pressing issue of safety in the e-hailing sector.
The event drew over 200 driver-partners and prominent government representatives, according to a statement on Friday.
The discussions emphasised the vital role of collaboration between regulators, platform operators, and drivers in creating a safer ecosystem for passengers and drivers alike. Key topics included the implementation of safety measures to protect all users, the role of technology in safety advancements, and the essential contributions of drivers in shaping safety policies.
Isaac Sileku, Western Cape Minister of Mobility, commended the initiative, said: “Safety is not just a feature; it is the foundation of trust and a shared responsibility between users of e-hailing platforms. This summit exemplifies Bolt’s commitment to collaborative action, setting a standard for the broader mobility sector.
“The insights gained here will influence our ongoing regulatory efforts to ensure a balanced approach to driver protection, passenger accountability, and platform responsibility.“
Weyinmi Aghadiuno, Bolt’s head of public policy for Africa, said, “At Bolt, safety is at the core of our mission. This summit is a reflection of our dedication to working hand-in-hand with drivers, government, and stakeholders to develop and implement solutions that enhance the safety and security of our community.“
The summit featured interactive panel discussions and showcased Bolt’s advanced safety features, including in-app SOS buttons and audio trip recording, 24/7 support and verification feature. Discussions also highlighted education and community empowerment as key components of holistic safety solutions.
This summit marks another milestone in Bolt’s ongoing efforts to promote a culture of safety across its platform, solidifying its role as a trusted mobility partner in South Africa and beyond.
