By Sizakele Nduli
Requesting a ride can be daunting for women, especially with the rising concerns of gender-based violence, muggings, and assaults. But thanks to Maambele Khosa, women in Stellenbosch in the Western Cape have access to safe and reliable rides provided by women for women. The 28-year-old innovative entrepreneur launched SheCab in 2021. It offers safe travel options and creates meaningful employment opportunities.
Khosa’s concept for SheCab emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic when she faced challenges finding a safe transportation option to the airport while trying to return to her home province. Although Stellenbosch is relatively close to the airport, she recognised the need for a service that ensured women felt secure and comfortable with their drivers just as she would have loved during her own experience.
Vutivi News inquired about Khosa”s decision to establish her business in Stellenbosch given that she was originally from Tiyani Ka Magoro in Limpopo.
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She responded that she chose Stellenbosch because she was based there, and it was a vibrant tourist town with a significant population of women students and professionals. “It felt like the perfect place to start SheCab, given the need for safe, reliable transport for women,” she said. Khosa holds a Master’s in Science and Technology, a Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing, and a BSc in Geoinformatics all from Stellenbosch University.
She also leads media and communication at the Centre for Epidemic Research and Innovation at the university. In 2023, she was named among the Mail & Guardian’s Top 200 Young South Africans.
Leading a team of 23 women, Khosa mentioned that her biggest challenge was finding skilled, professional women drivers who were both available and willing to work. “While I haven’t fully overcome this, I have implemented strategies to meet demand and keep the business,” she added.
To join her winning team, Khosa explained that candidates must possess a valid driver’s licence, have a professional driving permit, top-notch driving skills, and a strong dedication to safety. SheCab’s service terms indicate that charges, fares, and fees vary depending on the type of service, number of passengers, time of day, and distance travelled. With in ride-sharing scenarios, if drivers pick up two clients simultaneously, riders receive a credit of R100 or cashback of R50.
There is no denying that Khosa’s business is on a steady upward trajectory, as evidenced by customer reviews highlighting the company's commitment to safe and reliable driving. To support its growth and broaden its impact, SheCab also works closely with various organisations. “We collaborate with a number of organisations, including wineries, guest houses, and public institutions to help grow our business and offer safe transportation to a wider community,” Khosa added.
While Khosa could not outline specific plans or goals for SheCab’s expansion and service offerings over the next five years, she remains optimistic about the future. “For now, let’s wait and see what the future holds. There are definitely exciting possibilities on the horizon for our growth and service expansion,” she said.
