Ride-hailing drivers to begin sit-down strike November 5

The Digital Transport Workers Union has declared a sit-down strike beginning Thursday, November 5, 2026, over what it describes as unfair working conditions imposed on drivers by foreign ride-hailing companies.

The union says high platform commissions, unfair penalties and inadequate safety measures are affecting drivers’ earnings and making it difficult for them to sustain their livelihoods.

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Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, the union’s Greater Accra Regional Secretary, Mohammed Yakubu, said several attempts to get the companies to address their concerns through negotiations had failed.

“We have prayed, petitioned and pleaded for peace and negotiations, but our cries have fallen on deaf ears. We have been pushed to the wall, and we have no choice but to fight for our own survival,” he said.

Yakubu acknowledged the economic difficulties facing the country and the pressure on drivers and couriers who depend on ride-hailing services to provide for their families.

He, however, warned that continuing to work under what the union considers an unfair system would only worsen their situation.

The union is demanding fair commission rates and subscription-based payment models that would allow drivers to retain a larger share of their earnings.

It is also calling on ride-hailing companies to stop penalising drivers when passengers cancel trips or when drivers reject requests involving long pick-up distances that are not financially viable.

Additionally, the union wants mandatory Ghana Card verification for all passengers using ride-hailing applications, as well as functional emergency support systems to provide assistance when incidents occur.

It is also demanding a formal engagement structure between platform executives and recognised driver associations to ensure that drivers are consulted before changes are made to fares, policies and working conditions.

As part of its response to the concerns, the union has encouraged drivers and couriers to consider using Bamidjo, a local ride-hailing platform which it says operates a subscription model, offers transparent payouts and provides affordable fares.

Yakubu also appealed to passengers to support drivers during the industrial action, arguing that drivers should not be expected to continue working under conditions that make it difficult for them to earn enough to survive.

“Choose Bamidjo for your commute to support fair wages and protect Ghanaian livelihoods,” he said.

The union says the strike is intended to compel ride-hailing companies to address its demands and create a fairer and safer working environment for drivers and couriers.

ANAS/MA

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