Dash Cameras Become Must-Have Gear for Nigerian E-Hailing Drivers in South Africa February 13th marked a turning point for South Africa's e-hailing industry, as a dash camera (cam) video began circulating on social media, showcasing the final moments of a Nigerian e-hailing driver's life. The incident led to swift action from the authorities, who apprehended suspects within days. This event sparked a heated debate over platform responsibility, surveillance, and passenger privacy. As I embarked on 23 e-hailing trips between February 15th and 19th, I noticed a significant shift in the conversation among drivers. Many had already installed dash cams, while others were planning to do so. For some, the video was a wake-up call, highlighting the importance of safety measures in their line of work. As Martin, an Uber driver in Johannesburg, put it, "I never thought much about dash cams until the recent incidents of e-hailing driver killings. Now, it's a must-have, like having justice insurance." Cameras as a Last Line of Defense The increasing demand for dash cams has led to partnerships between e-hailing platforms and telematics providers. Basic models, costing around R400 (approximately $25), have made them accessible to drivers in the low-margin gig economy. However, as Butho, an Uber driver, pointed out, dash cams have limitations. "They don't help in real-time, but the footage is crucial as evidence for family members to get justice if something happens to us." For many drivers, the murder of a colleague changed their perspective on safety. E-hailing GPS logs can aid investigators after an attack, but they don't prevent violence in the moment. A visible camera may deter attackers, as Qhubani, a Bolt driver, suggested, "Given the recent case, a dash cam might make an attacker think twice before striking, since it's quicker to get them arrested." Ndabezinhle Khoza, chairperson of the South African Ride-Hailing Drivers Association (SARIDEHA), emphasized the importance of dash cams in e-hailing. "If remotely monitored, dash cams play a crucial role in apprehending criminals in the industry. However, if they're just loop-recording, they can be useless." A Regulatory Push Takes Shape The e-hailing association has long advocated for dashcams in cars, citing their potential to prevent attacks and provide proof in case of disputes or violent crimes. While Uber