Ride-hailing operators across the country face major disruption from November 5 following a sit-down strike declared by the Digital Transport Workers Union (DTWU) over high platform charges and worsening operational conditions.
The union, which represents drivers operating on major platforms including Bolt, Yango, and Uber, accused the app companies of unilaterally hiking service fees while ignoring the welfare of drivers who power their operations.
National Vice Chairman of the DTWU, Mahama Inusa, disclosed during a press briefing on Tuesday that previous engagements with the leadership of the multinational ride-hailing firms yielded no positive outcome. He stated that despite the companies framing their relationship with drivers as a partnership, corporate decisions continue to exploit workers without adequate dialogue.
Drivers have been instructed to switch off competing applications during the industrial action and migrate to Vamijo, a local platform operating a driver-friendly commission model. Under this alternative structure, operators pay a flat daily rate of GH¢24 or a capped 10 per cent service charge, contrasting with established platforms that deduct up to 30 per cent from single trip earnings.
The union noted that management representatives from Vamijo have already met with executives to address driver concerns, demonstrating a commitment to supporting local transport workers.
The DTWU has urged government intervention to establish a strict regulatory framework overseeing ride-hailing services. Additionally, union leadership appealed for state-backed vehicle procurement initiatives, suggesting the distribution of electric cars through recognized transport associations to lower the high acquisition and maintenance costs currently burdening drivers.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana