Johannesburg – Twytch, a groundbreaking e-hailing platform, has officially launched in South Africa, aiming to revolutionise ride-sharing for both drivers and passengers. With an emphasis on safety, affordability, and driver empowerment, alongside a commitment to spatial justice, Twytch introduces a new standard in the country’s evolving e-hailing sector.
Twytch Powered by Blockchain
At the heart of Twytch’s platform is a pioneering focus on safety. As the first e-hailing platform in Africa to integrate blockchain-backed identity verification software, Twytch has partnered exclusively with Secure Citizen to implement a Verifiable Credential (VC) system for all users.
Denvin Naidoo, Safety and Security Lead for Twytch Africa, highlights the significance of this innovation:
“Through the power of blockchain technology and verifiable credentials, we are not just enhancing safety and security, we are redefining what trust means in the e-hailing service industry. Every ride is a safe space, every interaction is verified, and every user is protected.”
Verifiable Credentials are secure, digital representations of identity information stored cryptographically on a decentralised blockchain. These credentials are nearly impossible to forge or alter, ensuring that only verified users can access the platform. Unlike traditional identification systems, VCs are tamper-proof, providing a higher level of trust and security.
The e-hailing industry in South Africa has faced persistent challenges with safety, including identity fraud and crimes involving unverified users. Martin Grunewald, Chief Executive of Global Growth at Secure Citizen, underscores the importance of Twytch’s technology:
“Twytch is setting a new benchmark in Africa with our industry-first advanced digital identity verification technology. When you book a ride, you want to feel confident you’re in good hands—and drivers deserve the same confidence about the riders they welcome into their cars. This offering raises the bar for safety and security in ride-sharing, creating a more trusted experience for everyone involved.”
Twytch Driver Empowerment and Support
In an industry-first move, Twytch has partnered with the Momentum Group to introduce driver-centric benefits that go beyond the traditional e-hailing model. This partnership provides drivers with access to essential benefits such as medical insurance and funeral policies, ensuring the well-being of their families. Damian McHugh, Chief Marketing Officer at Momentum Health, explains the rationale behind the collaboration:
“At Momentum Health, our mission has always been to provide more health to South Africans for less. This partnership with Twytch is a testament to that commitment. Through our Health4Me offering, we are expanding opportunities to deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions that empower both employers and their employees to lead healthier lives.”
Drivers will also benefit from a suite of financial and operational supports, including banking solutions, vehicle insurance, retirement planning, and financial wellness programmes. Additional benefits include subsidised data, smart devices, and a fixed-rate payment structure that eliminates commission-based earnings. Drivers will receive a daily meal allowance, an annual bonus, and reduced operational costs through subsidised benefits.
Twytch Pricing
For passengers, Twytch introduces a surge-free pricing model that reflects real-time traffic conditions, ensuring transparent fares. Payment is entirely cashless, with transactions facilitated through card payments or the in-app wallet.
Chief Creative Officer and Co-founder of Wearevalora, Warrick Guest, emphasises the platform’s broader mission:
“Twytch is more than an e-hailing platform; it’s a movement for change. Twytch aims to become a cultural verb in the South African and African e-hailing space, and we are committed to creating opportunities for drivers, ensuring affordability for passengers, and setting new safety standards. With Twytch, South Africa gains a partner that listens, innovates, and delivers.”
A Vision for Expansion and Excellence
Twytch’s leadership team is committed to raising the bar for e-hailing services in South Africa. Rodney Douglas, Twytch Operations Lead for Africa, outlines the platform’s priorities:
“At Twytch, we’re raising the bar for ride-sharing by prioritising driver-centric rewards and passenger satisfaction. From comprehensive benefits to communication training, our drivers will be equipped to provide an unparalleled experience. South Africans deserve the best, and Twytch will deliver.”
The platform’s launch will proceed city by city from February, starting in Johannesburg and expanding to Durban, Cape Town, and Pretoria. Twytch aims to recruit 12,500 drivers nationwide, with applications open via [email protected].
Poised to Revolutionise Ride-Sharing
Twytch is entering the market with bold aspirations and innovative solutions designed to address longstanding challenges in South Africa’s e-hailing industry. By prioritising safety, empowering drivers, and ensuring affordability for passengers, Twytch is set to redefine the ride-sharing experience while establishing itself as a trusted partner for South Africans.
