inDrive Drivers in Botswana Demand 30% Fare Increase

Drivers for inDrive in Botswana are experiencing high financial pressure due to fuel prices and increased competition following the entry of Bolt into the market in March.

Many drivers report that the current fare structure is inadequate to cover their expenses, with over ten operators reporting unstable income. 

inDrive Drivers in Botswana Stresses For Fare Increment

They stress that an increase in fares is needed for the sustainability of the ride-hailing model, affirming the issues faced by gig drivers across Africa.

With fuel costs on the rise, drivers assert that the low base fares offered by inDrive are no longer viable. They shared instances of fare reductions, with one driver noting that a trip from the airport to Gaborone’s CBD, which used to cost P100 ($7.50), is now priced at only P50 ($3.70) on the app.

Gig drivers in Botswana are also adjusting to inDrive’s introduction of a 10% commission this year. When inDrive launched in Botswana in 2019, it was a popular choice because of its zero commission. 

While that was always unlikely to last forever, drivers believe that with a commission now in place, the company must raise fares for passengers.

Also Read: inDrive Drivers Laments in Displeasure, Cry over Low Fares

inDrive Claims No Formal Complaints From Its Drivers Was Made

Drivers had anticipated that the introduction of this fee would be balanced by fare increases for passengers, but no adjustments have been made, leaving them to absorb the additional financial burden without any apparent support from the platform.

inDrive argues and told TechCabal that charging commissions on driver earnings ensures they can make further investments in Botswana. The company says it has not received any formal complaints from drivers about the commission. 

“We have made it clear to drivers that monetization is essential for business sustainability.”

Many drivers find that riders are often unwilling to negotiate beyond the app’s suggested fare, forcing them to choose between accepting lower-paying rides or potentially losing business. 

Efforts to request additional payments beyond the quoted fare have sometimes resulted in negative ratings from riders.

The issues faced by inDrive drivers in Botswana affect other countries too, challenges encountered by ride-hailing operators across the continent, where high operational costs and platform fees continue to strain gig workers. 

In light of these circumstances, drivers are urging inDrive to reconsider its fare policies to facilitate a fairer environment, recognizing their important role in the success of the service.

Interact with us via our social media platforms:

Facebook: Silicon Africa.
Instagram: Siliconafricatech.
Twitter: @siliconafrite.