Welcome readers! Join us as we move around the continent to catch up on the latest transport updates!
Nigeria: LASG to allow only VIS-compliant Danfo buses, Korope on Lekki-Epe corridor from October 1
The Lagos State Government has recently announced that only Danfo buses and Korope meeting Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) standards will be permitted to operate as mid-capacity buses on the Lekki-Epe corridor, effective October 1, 2024,
Sola Giwa, Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos on Transportation, made this announcement in a statement released on Sunday, July 14, 2024.
This move coincides with the State’s Bus Reform Initiative (BRI) aimed at restructuring commercial bus operations to enhance public commuting in the Lekki-Epe axis.
As part of its pilot project, the BRI will introduce mass transit buses along the Lekki-Epe corridor. VIS-compliant Danfo buses will operate as mid-capacity vehicles, while Korope minibuses will provide First Mile Last Mile services on routes from Obalende/CMS to Ajah, including Eleko.
Additionally, Danfo and Korope buses will undergo rigorous safety checks, and drivers will receive professional training to ensure high standards of road safety and passenger service.
Kenya: E-hailing drivers commence 5-day strike to demand better pay
On Monday, July 15, 2024, Kenyan ride-hailing drivers embarked on a five-day strike demanding the removal of value-added tax and higher pay. They marched to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) office to express their grievances.
The protest follows a directive from the East African nation’s Transport Ministry requiring Bolt and Uber to cap their commissions at 18% per trip to protect drivers. In addition to these demands, drivers seek to be involved in the pricing decisions of Uber and Bolt, citing their responsibility for expenses such as insurance and parking.
The strike follows a directive from the East African nation’s Transport Ministry requiring Bolt and Uber to cap their commissions at 18% per trip. In addition to these demands, drivers seek to be involved in pricing decisions due to their costs for insurance and parking.
Zakaria Mwangi, Secretary General of the Digital Taxi Association of Kenya, argued that it is unreasonable for those who set trip prices to avoid bearing operating costs. “Ultimately, the taxi apps determine the cost of each trip, not the driver,” Mwangi explained.
The drivers also criticized e-hailing platforms for charging taxes on their 18% commission, although these taxes are paid to the government. They deemed this practice unfair, arguing they shouldn’t bear operational costs while app companies secure guaranteed income.