02/08/2024
On 12 July 2024, a girl, 16, requested an Uber from her school in Pretoria to her home. During the journey, the Uber driver, noticeably older than the girl dressed in her school uniform, initiated an inappropriate conversation.
The man suggested that the girl join him and his friends for a party where alcohol would be consumed. The man even said he would lie to the parents about her whereabouts.
Feeling very scared, the girl politely declined the invitation. Despite her refusal, the driver persisted and handed over his number, insisting she join the party. Upon reaching her destination, the girl immediately reported the incident to Uber and informed her family.
She also shared her disturbing experience on Instagram, where someone else alerted her that this Uber driver had allegedly received several similar reports.
This Uber incident has - once again - shocked us and raised serious concerns about the safety of e-hailing for women and children in South Africa.
Women For Change is demanding that Uber finally take accountability and implement immediate actions to ensure the safety and well-being of its passengers, especially its women and children.
