Gig economy: 70% of South Africans turn to e-hailing for jobs

A report by Bolt and Ipsos has revealed that many South Africans are becoming e-hailing drivers to earn extra income, while others rely on it as their sole full-time job. This highlights how gig work is growing in the country. Ipsos is a global market research and polling company that conducts surveys and studies to understand public opinion, consumer behaviour 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. The report looking 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 reliable 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 day-to-day 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 build income streams, support their households and take control of their financial futures. What we are seeing is the rise of everyday entrepreneurship, where individuals are creating flexible, self-directed livelihoods on their own terms.” The report defines gig work as flexible short-term income-generating activities enabled through digital platforms.

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“In the context of ride-hailing, gig workers are drivers who use platforms to earn income on flexible terms, either supplementing existing earnings or operating as independent micro-entrepreneurs. In South Africa, this model is increasingly translating into tangible livelihood gains,” said Kalajdzic. The report revealed that 90% of drivers report an improvement in their standard of living, with earnings commonly used to cover essentials such as food, rent, transport and education.

These earnings help households stabilise finances, smooth income, and reduce reliance on irregular alternatives. The report found that 32% of respondents cited self-earned income and financial independence as the most important benefit, reflecting a growing desire among South Africans to take control of their earnings.

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