Maseru, Feb.11-At busy taxi stopping points across the capital, unemployed youth are earning M1 per passenger by helping drivers quickly fill their taxis, turning small coins into a daily means of survival amid persistent job shortages.
The young men, commonly stationed at popular pick-up points, signal taxis to stop for waiting commuters and ensure vehicles depart with full loads. For every passenger secured, taxi drivers pay them M1.
One of the assistants, Mr. Lira Mokhele of Ha-Leqele, said he turned to informal work after completing Form E and failing to secure an opportunity to further his studies.
“There are no jobs, so I had to find a way to survive,” he said, adding that although the earnings help, they are not sufficient to fully meet his basic needs. He noted that working on the streets ensures that he does not “sleep on an empty stomach.”
Mr. Hlao Phohleli, who previously worked at roadside pick-up points and now assists a taxi driver directly, explained that the job once enabled him to support his family. He said he managed to buy food and pay school fees for his two children, one in pre-school and the other in primary school.
However, he cited challenges, including instances where some drivers leave without paying after picking up passengers.
Taxi driver Mr. Keketso Jane said the arrangement benefits drivers, particularly during peak hours, as it saves time.
“When we arrive, we find passengers ready instead of searching for them,” he said.
He, however, acknowledged that misunderstandings sometimes arise when more than one assistant claims payment for the same passenger or when a driver had already identified a commuter without assistance.
“There are also times when a passenger does not have enough money for transport but is still expected to pay M1, which becomes a challenge,” he said.
The growing practice highlights the pressure of rising unemployment, especially among youth, forcing many to rely on small and unpredictable daily earnings within the informal sector.
ENDS/MOM/BM