SANTACO commits to working harmoniously with e-hailing drivers

The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) has committed to working harmoniously with e-hailing drivers after signing a regulation recognising the app-based service provider as a mode of public transport. 

The Department of Transport made these changes through the National Land Transport Amendment Act in September. 

The South African Meter Taxi and E-hailing Association (SAMTEA), which represents Bolt, Teksi Ride, and Shuma Ride, was part of the meeting that led to the landmark regulation change. 

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All parties have reiterated their commitment to driver and passenger safety, with the aim of introducing panic buttons and other safety measures. 

In August, two e-hailing drivers were shot at and their cars torched, with suspicion that the taxi industry was behind the attack. 

SANTACO denied these claims, however, it admitted that there is an urgent need to form a positive working relationship with the e-hailing sector.

"The meeting also opened the door for future initiatives, including exploring enterprise development opportunities for e-hailing operators and drivers; Promoting inclusion of e-hailing into the broader formalization goals set out by the 2020 Taxi Lekgotla," said SANTACO spokesperson, Rebecca Phala.