Mzansi Magic's compelling documentary series, The Request, sheds light on the daily struggles of e-hailing drivers across Mzansi. These unsung heroes navigate bustling streets, carrying not just passengers but also their personal stories, challenges, and aspirations.

As the season continues, here’s a recap of some of the episodes that have aired:

Mncedisi Nqeketho

In the harsh reality of the e-hailing business, every ride comes with its own risks. Mncedisi Nqeketho, a resilient driver, experienced the terrifying side of this industry firsthand. He was ambushed while fulfilling a ride request and hijacked at gunpoint by three men who initially appeared to be regular passengers.

Sandile Nyawose

After losing his job due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Sandile Nyawose started a new journey as an e-hailing driver, unaware of the dangers that awaited him. His unsettling experience began when he accepted a ride request from Pinetown, which turned into a nightmare. Three men led him to a secluded area, where they held him at gunpoint and hijacked his vehicle.

Siphamandla Dlamini

Amidst Mzansi's alarming unemployment rates, Siphamandla Dlamini joined the e-hailing industry in pursuit of a brighter future. His optimism took a devastating hit one evening after picking up three teenagers shortly after sunset. Trusting them, he followed their directions, which led to a dead-end road. There, he fought desperately for his life, only to be shot in both his arm and stomach, resulting in paralysis.

Mfundo Mchunu 

Mfundo Mchunu's view of humanity dramatically changed when a ride request took a sinister turn. One fateful morning, he picked up three seemingly ordinary men from a garage, who later revealed their true intentions. The trio ambushed him, hijacked his vehicle, and forced him into the boot.

Siyabonga Majuda

After a long, exhausting day at work, Siyabonga Majuda thought one last trip request would be harmless. However, that decision marked a turning point in his life. Instead of a typical ride, he was hijacked at gunpoint, forced into the boot of his vehicle, and driven to a dangerous hostel.

Siyabonga Khetha

Siyabonga Khetha, known for his hard work and dedication as an e-hailing driver, found himself in a precarious situation one evening when he picked up a policeman's unfaithful wife from a B&B. What began as a mundane ride quickly escalated into chaos, thrusting him into a dangerous confrontation.

Each episode serves as a testament to the resilience and courage of these drivers as they navigate an industry fraught with risks while striving to improve their lives in the face of adversity.

No detours, no filters, just the authentic experience behind the hustle of e-hailing. Watch The Request every Friday at 19:00 on Mzansi Magic.

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