On Duty During the Festivities: The Holiday Grind of Addis Ababa's Ride-Hailing Drivers

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What's happening: Ride-hailing drivers in Addis Ababa, like Yonas Tigabu, are working through holidays, driven by high demand and the need for extra income amidst rising costs in the gig economy.

Why it matters: As Ethiopia's ride-hailing sector grows, drivers face financial pressures from increased fuel costs and new traffic penalties, making holiday work a critical source of income despite the cultural significance of these times for family gatherings.

Details:

  • Yonas Tigabu, a 27-year-old driver, works seven days a week, earning about 2,000 birr daily, with potential earnings of over 3,000 birr on holidays.
  • Demand for ride-hailing services spikes during holidays due to limited public transport options.
  • The Ethiopian ride-hailing sector has approximately 135,000 drivers, but rising fuel prices (gasoline now at 112.67 birr per liter) and taxes have made driving less appealing.
  • Recent fare increases have made ride-hailing services more expensive for customers, leading to decreased demand.
  • Active drivers during holidays drop by about 30%, though demand can increase on holiday eves.
  • New traffic regulations have introduced hefty fines, adding stress to drivers.

Holidays are when most people spend restful days celebrating with family and friends. However, for some ride hailing drivers in Addis Ababa the festivities are the busiest of workdays.


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