Peace deal signed between taxi industry and South Africa’s richest province

The Department of Roads and Transport in Gauteng has met with the province’s taxi industry leaders to sign an agreement to resolve key challenges within the sector and ensure uninterrupted public transport services.

Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, the province’s Roads and Transport MEC, met with representatives of the taxi industry last week, following threats of a province-wide shutdown.

Discussions were held regarding the issuing and collection of operating licences, regulatory compliance, commuter safety, and overall stability in the sector.

The MEC noted that she welcomed the spirit of cooperation that was demonstrated during discussions, adding that the provincial government and taxi industry remain committed to resolving outstanding matters.

She added that the hope is to do so through constructive engagement in the best interests of commuters and the people of Gauteng.

Following successful deliberations between the Roads and Transport Department and the National Taxi Alliance, an agreement was reached, and the strikes were called off.

The strike was proposed in response to what the NTA saw as failures within the department, with operators unable to renew their operating licences or apply for new ones for some time.

“Uninterrupted public transport is critical to our economy and to the lives of our residents. Every commuter has the right to travel safely, freely, and without fear,” Diale-Tlabela said.

“We will continue working closely with the taxi industry to build a system that is safe, reliable, affordable, and compliant with the law.”

Agreements between the provincial department and the industry include ongoing engagements with regular progress reviews and accelerated resolution of operating licence issuance, including verification and inheritance matters. 

Other joint interventions include addressing commuter safety concerns, including allegations of intimidation and harassment.

Diale-Tlabela noted that the provincial government and taxi leadership have recommitted to accountability and collaboration as they tackle the sector’s challenges.

“Our shared goal is a safe, reliable, and accessible public transport system for all,” she declared.

“The department is also strengthening direct engagement with operators to improve oversight and better understand sector challenges.”

Gauteng looking to rein in the taxi industry

Beyond its agreement with the industry, Gauteng Roads and Transport is looking to strengthen administration and control in the taxi industry, focusing on operating licences.

Following engagements with the Gauteng Taxi Industry (GTI), Diale-Tlabela reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a constructive and transparent partnership with the taxi industry.

However, she highlighted the need to strengthen governance over the operating licence system after the GTI raised concerns about the department’s stakeholder engagement programme and the current operating licence model.

“The taxi industry remains a critical pillar in the provision of public transport services, moving millions of Gauteng residents daily,” the MEC said at the time.

“The department values its long-standing relationship with organised taxi leadership and remains committed to building a safe, reliable and commuter-centred public transport system.”

Regarding the issues surrounding issuance of operating licences, the MEC clarified that the department is currently reviewing the existing licensing model.

She explained that this is a necessary governance intervention that has been informed by concerns raised by taxi industry stakeholders.

“These interventions are a direct response to allegations of irregularities, inconsistent administrative practices and possible corruption within the system,” she said.

“We have a responsibility to act decisively to protect legitimate operators and restore public confidence.”

The department’s preliminary findings during the current review process have revealed several discrepancies that require further verification.

This reinforces the need for stronger oversight in the system, as well as better operational integrity.

Diale-Tlabela noted that the Transport Operating Licence Administrative Bodies (TOLABs) are responsible for executing statutory duties within South Africa’s taxi industry.

However, the Roads and Transport Department retains accountability over operations to ensure that the licensing system remains lawful, transparent and free from irregularities.