The E-Toll Saga - A Journey From CEO To Civil Activist

The E-Toll Saga recounts the journey of Wayne Duvenage from a conscientious corporate CEO into the role of corporate activist pitting all his energy and resources into fighting the controversial decision by those who sought to implement electronic tolling to finance a major road construction project in Gauteng, the economic heartland of southern Africa.

The Opposition to Urban Tolling Alliance (OUTA) sprung up from nothing to a highly rated brand in the not-for-profit space in a matter of a few months, in the process raising R11 million for litigation. Wayne Duvenage's leadership was crucial to the success. Paradoxically, it was a success that failed. Although OUTA lost its legal battle, its opponent, the South African National Roads Agency Ltd (SANRAL), has been the ultimate loser of the larger war.

Electronic tolling has been a disaster for SANRAL and an embarrassment for the South African government under President Jacob Zuma as the saga continues to unfold.

The E-Toll Saga describes one man's inspiring personal story but it also contains valuable lessons on what makes a civil organisation effective and how to mobilise an active citizenry to work towards positive transformation in South Africa.