3,000 taxis get the green light in South Africa’s richest province

Since the end of last year, the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport (GDRT) has handed over more than 3,000 operating licences to compliant minibus taxi and scholar transport operators across the province.

This comes after the department’s latest round of handovers during the Special Operating Licence Handover ceremonies that took place between Wednesday and Friday last week, when 211 operating licences were collected.

The handover ceremonies were held in Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, Tshwane and Sedibeng District, and allowed compliant public transport operators to collect approved operating licences before the collection deadline.

The 108 uncollected licences now risk being cancelled, subject to applicable administrative processes in line with the relevant legislative framework.

Following the handovers, Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, thanked operators for their patience while the department works towards an improved and streamlined process.

“These ceremonies were more than just formalities but served as a testament to our commitment to rebuilding a licensing system that is efficient, transparent and fair,” the MEC said.

“The new processes have greatly facilitated the department’s contribution to regulatory compliance, enhancing service delivery, and supporting a safe, reliable, and efficient public transport system across the province.”

Diale-Tlabela added that the department remains committed to restoring order in the public transport sector and improving service standards while fostering a culture of compliance amongst operators.

By law, public transport operators require operating licences before they are permitted to use South African roads and transport its citizens for a fee.

The National Land Transport Act 5 of 2009, specifically Sections 54 and 62, requires that operators be in possession of a valid operating licence at all times.

Diale-Tlabela acknowledged the economic importance of operators having valid documentation.

“The possession of a valid operating licence also serves as a tool of economic participation and emancipation,” she said.

Gauteng taking back control of its taxi industry

South Africa is looking to improve administration and increase control over the taxi industry, particularly regarding the issuing of operating licences.

The Gauteng Taxi Industry (GTI) also raised concerns about the department’s engagement programme and operating licence-issuing model.

In response, Diale-Tlabela reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a constructive and transparent partnership with the taxi industry, but highlighted the need to strengthen governance over the system.

The MEC said that the taxi industry remains a critical pillar when it comes to the provision of public transport services, transporting millions of residents in the province every day.

“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,” she said.

According to Diale-Tlabela, the ongoing engagements with operators and taxi associations across Gauteng are aligned with the department’s mandates.

The provincial government is obligated to ensure an efficient, integrated, and accountable public transport system.

The existing licensing model is being reviewed, which the MEC said is a necessary governance intervention, and which, alongside the issue of operating licences, is informed by industry concerns.

“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 ongoing review process has already identified several discrepancies the department said require further verification, reinforcing the need for stronger oversight and better systems integrity.

Diale-Tlabela noted that the Transport Operating Licence Administrative Bodies (TOLABs) execute their statutory responsibilities within the industry.

However, she highlighted that the department retains overall accountability to ensure that the licensing system remains lawful, transparent and free from irregularities.