The mobility market is experiencing rapid growth across the continent. In South Africa, where many industry giants are active, a local startup is attempting to establish its own unique position. The company's name, which translates to "hurry" in Zulu, reflects its dynamic approach to the market.
Shesha is an e-mobility solution developed by a South African startup. It allows users to book taxis online through a mobile app. Launched in 2024, the startup is based in the Gauteng province and is supported by various entities such as the Gauteng Taxi Industry Trust, Santaco Gauteng, and the Gauteng National Taxi Alliance.
The app is currently available only on Android, where it has already been downloaded over 10,000 times according to Play Store data. After downloading, users create an account with their ID number. Once verified, they can access the startup's services. Drivers are required to provide more documentation, including an ID, driver's license, and vehicle inspection report.
These measures are taken to ensure the safety of both drivers and customers. "Shesha verifies the identities of everyone on a Shesha trip from the customer to the driver, ensuring that they are indeed who they say they are," said Nomsa Mdhluli, spokesperson for the startup.
To book a driver, users need to enter their route into the app, choose the type of vehicle, and confirm the reservation. Notably, it is impossible to make a reservation without sufficient funds in the user's electronic wallet. The startup mandates payments through this secure and transparent channel. The wallet can be topped up via bank cards or at an ATM.
"...Another factor when we consulted with e-hailing operators was the fact that cash is allowed also puts them at risk. So, we use a cashless system," Nomsa Mdhluli said in an interview with a local South African news.
Shesha, which already has about 13,000 drivers on its platform, currently operates only in the Gauteng province. The startup plans to expand to other provinces in the coming months.
Adoni Conrad Quenum
