Reaffirming its commitment to boosting drivers’ earnings, mobility app inDrive has invested around R1,3-million every month in driver bonuses across South Africa – amounting to more than R8-million in the past six months.

According to Ashif Black, country representative for inDrive in South Africa, the company’s fare negotiation model and unique commission forms part of a consistent, meaningful investment aimed at improving the livelihoods of the very people who keep the platform moving.

“At a time when the cost of living is rising and many ride-hailing platforms continue to raise commissions, inDrive is doing the opposite,” Black says. “We’re putting money back into drivers’ pockets where it belongs.”

The company says that this is a clear demonstration of its “People Before Profits” mission and a reflection of its firm stance on creating fairer earning opportunities for those working in the e-hailing sector.

Black explains that the in-app bonus system allows drivers to clearly see their earning goals within the app. Once they meet specific targets, they’re rewarded with bonuses that help cover their commission costs. While the bonuses are not withdrawable as cash, they significantly reduce the amount drivers pay in commission fees, meaning they keep more of what they earn.

The bonus period is also time-bound which gives drivers flexibility and control over how they reach their goals. Whether a full-time driver or someone earning part-time income, the structure is designed to reward commitment and performance fairly.

He adds that this driver-first approach is part of the company’s broader push to disrupt outdated ride-hailing models and create a system that serves both drivers and passengers equitably.