A Gig Economy Report highlights how South African gig workers use ride-hailing as a secondary source of income.
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A new report by Bolt, conducted in partnership with market research firm Ipsos, finds that ride-hailing plays an increasingly important role in helping South Africans earn income and navigate a difficult economic climate.
The Gig Economy Report highlights how digital platforms are reshaping livelihoods, with many people turning to ride-hailing not only for supplementary income but also as a pathway into entrepreneurship amid high unemployment and rising living costs.
According to the findings, 70% of South African gig workers use ride-hailing as a secondary source of income, while 30% rely on it as their primary livelihood.
The report defines gig work as flexible, short-term income-generating activities enabled through digital platforms, with ride-hailing drivers operating as independent earners or micro-entrepreneurs.
The Ipsos data shows that over 90% of drivers reported an improvement in their standard of living. Earnings are commonly used to cover essentials such as food, rent, transport and education, helping households stabilise finances and reduce reliance on irregular income sources.
The report also found that 32% of respondents identified self-earned income and financial independence as the most important benefit of gig work, reflecting a growing emphasis on autonomy and financial control among participants.
Beyond individual benefits, the report suggests that ride-hailing platforms are emerging as economic stabilisers in South Africa, particularly given persistently high unemployment. The ability to generate flexible and consistent income is helping many households remain economically active and meet basic needs.
Simo Kalajdzic, senior operations manager at Bolt, said in South Africa’s current economic climate, ride-hailing is no longer just about mobility, it’s about opportunity.
"Many drivers are using platforms like Bolt 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,” said Kalajdzic.
Bongani Nkosi, spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Economic Development, said the report's findings reinforce the important role that digital platforms are playing in expanding access to economic opportunities across Gauteng.
"Our partnership with Bolt reflects a shared commitment to enabling inclusive growth, supporting micro-entrepreneurship, and ensuring that more South Africans can participate meaningfully in the economy. As a government, we remain focused on creating an enabling environment that balances innovation with protection and long-term sustainability,” said Nkosi.
Soyinka Witness, Ipsos, director of strategy, said the research highlights the growing significance of the gig economy in South Africa’s labour market.
"A large proportion of participants are using ride-hailing to supplement income, while some rely on it as a primary livelihood. Importantly, many respondents report improved living standards and greater financial stability as a result.
"These findings point to the critical role that platform-based work is playing in supporting income resilience, entrepreneurship, and broader economic participation,” said Witness.