South Africa: Nationwide bus strike from April 18

Event

An indefinite nationwide bus strike is expected to begin on Wednesday, April 18. According to the South African Road Passenger Bargaining Council (SARPBC), the strike will affect at least 80 percent of buses, including those operating on both short- and long-distance routes. Affected services include the Cape Town's Golden Arrow and MyCiTi, Gauteng province's Putco, and Port Elizabeth's Algoa Bus Company. Increased road traffic congestion is likely throughout the country, and especially around big cities, with commuters forced to use minibuses, taxis, or cars. Related protests cannot be ruled out.

Context

Unions are demanding a wage increase and better working conditions.

Advice

Individuals in South Africa are advised to allow for extra time to reach their destinations, to plan for alternative mean of transportation, and to keep abreast of the situation.