Wanatu, the Afrikaans-based e-hailing platform, is at the center of controversy after its operations were suspended following legal action initiated against the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD). The TMPD's decision to impound two of Wanatu's vehicles on February 5, 2025, has sparked significant unrest and support from hundreds of drivers across competing e-hailing services.
Launched last year, Wanatu’s unique proposition revolves around having all its drivers fluent in Afrikaans—a language spoken by many communities across South Africa. The term "Wanatu" cleverly plays on the Afrikaans word "waarnatoe," which means "where to." Following the impoundments, Wanatu accused the TMPD of unlawful actions and intimidation, asserting its commitment to the safety of passengers and legal compliance took precedence over profits, leading to their decision to halt operations until the issue is resolved.
The crackdown on e-hailing services stemmed from broader policing actions initiated late last year, being characterized by Gauteng Provincial Legislature member, Ayanda Allie, as displaying double standards. Allie has been vocal about the challenges faced by Bolt, Uber, and other drivers, criticizing the TMPD for selectively enforcing road regulations. Allie’s backing has emerged as drivers claim the TMPD is disproportionately targeting them with fines and vehicle impoundments—often without fair grounds.
The new requirement for e-hailing drivers to carry road carrier permits became enforceable following amendments to the National Roads Traffic Act effective June 2024. Yet, even with these regulations, many drivers struggle to obtain necessary permits, as the Gauteng Roads and Transport Department currently grapples with over 20,000 pending applications. This extensive backlog has resulted in new permit applications being suspended since November 2023, compounding the challenges for drivers who at present are left with the choice to either pause their income or risk huge fines and impoundments.
E-hailing drivers complain of steep charges once their vehicles are impounded, with fees ranging from R3,000 to R6,000, which significantly burdens their already strained finances. Drivers seeking recourse have been encouraged to carry proof of their permit applications, though such documentation has often proved ineffective with TMPD officers. Although meetings have occurred with Tshwane's MMC for transport, these discussions have yet to yield any tangible outcomes.
On February 6, Wanatu took significant action by openly inviting drivers from other e-hailing companies to join its court proceedings against the TMPD. "Wanatu is fighting for e-hailing driver rights in court. If you’re an e-hailing driver and can’t represent yourself, join our application," announced the company, which within just two days attracted over 200 emails from frustrated drivers expressing solidarity. The continued flow of messages signifies the growing unrest among those affected by what they perceive as unfair treatment from local authorities.
Support from organizations such as The Lions and the newly forming Mzansi Independent E-Hailing Partners (Tshwane West E-hailing Association) has bolstered Wanatu’s efforts, highlighting the collective frustration shared across the e-hailing driver community. Wanatu remains optimistic, hoping the courts recognize the TMPD’s actions as unreasonable, particularly against the backdrop of the substantial permit application backlog.
While competitors Bolt, Uber, and others have opted to continue operations, the heightened focus on Wanatu's distinct branding leaves its drivers at increased risk of being targeted by the TMPD. The situation reveals the complications stemming from the existing regulatory frameworks governing e-hailing services and their often-strained relationship with metered taxis. This discord is not new; back in 2022, Cape Town faced mass protests when over 2,000 e-hailing vehicles were impounded due to similar bureaucratic gridlocks, leaving drivers without the necessary permits due to freezes on new applications.
With the legal battle looming, the consequences for Wanatu and its drivers remain uncertain. The broader e-hailing industry watches closely, knowing the outcomes could set significant precedents for the struggles faced across South Africa's dynamic and often tumultuous transport sector. This saga may shape the future operational environment for e-hailing services and the drivers who rely on them for their livelihoods.