A report by Bolt and Ipsos revealed that many South Africans are becoming e-hailing drivers to earn extra income, while others rely on it as their only full-time job. This highlights how gig work is on the rise in the country.
Ipsos is a global market research and polling company that conducts surveys and studies to understand public opinion, consumer behavior and market trends.
Gig work is short-term, flexible work where people earn income by completing individual tasks or jobs, often through digital platforms, rather than holding a permanent position.
gig workers
The report, which looked into the country's gig economy, revealed that at least 70% of South African gig workers use e-hailing as a secondary source of income, highlighting its importance as a trusted side hustle in a challenging economic environment.
Meanwhile, 30% of respondents rely on e-hailing as their primary source of income, underscoring its role as a daily livelihood for many.
“In South Africa's current economic climate, ride-hailing is no longer just about mobility; it's about opportunity,” said Simo Kalajdzic, senior operations manager at Bolt.
“Many drivers are using platforms to create sources of income, support their families, and take control of their financial futures. What we are seeing is the rise of everyday entrepreneurship, where individuals are building flexible, self-directed livelihoods on their own terms.”
Gig work is on the rise in SA
The report defines gig work as flexible short-term income-generating activities enabled through digital platforms.
“In the context of ride-hailing, gig workers are drivers who use the platforms to earn income on flexible terms, either supplementing existing income or working as independent micro-entrepreneurs. In South Africa, this model is increasingly translating into tangible livelihood benefits,” Kalajdzik said.
The report revealed that 90% of drivers report an improvement in their standard of living, with their earnings typically used to cover essentials such as food, fares, transportation and education.
These earnings help families stabilize finances, generate smooth income and reduce dependence on irregular alternatives.
The report found that 32% of respondents cited self-earned income and financial freedom as the most important benefits, reflecting a growing desire among South Africans to take control of their earnings.
“For many, this has a real-life impact, with drivers believing that ride-hailing enables them to earn additional income while maintaining flexibility and autonomy,” Bolt said.
Beyond individual income opportunities, the findings reinforce the growing role of e-hailing platforms as an economic stabilizer in the country. With persistently high unemployment, especially among youth, gig work is helping many families stay economically active, meet basic needs, and improve their overall quality of life.
“The ability to generate consistent, flexible income is becoming increasingly important in helping South Africans cope with financial uncertainty.”
Role of digital platform
“The findings of this report reinforce the important role that digital platforms are playing in increasing access to economic opportunities in Gauteng,” said Gauteng Department of Economic Development spokesperson Bongani Nkosi.
Soyinka Witness, strategy director at Ipsos, said: “This research highlights the growing importance of gig economy In the labor market of South Africa. A large portion of the participants are using ride-hailing to increase income, while some depend on it as a primary livelihood.
“Importantly, many respondents report improved standards of living and greater financial stability as a result. These findings point to the important role that platform-based work is playing in supporting income resilience, entrepreneurship and broader economic participation.”
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