Memorial
1Min
South Africa
Dec 10, 2025
Alexandra Taxi Association chairman Vusi Mayaba was tragically killed earlier this month, prompting widespread mourning across the taxi industry. His memorial service is being held in Wednesday in Sandton, where colleagues and community members are paying tribute to his leadership and legacy.
The Alexandra taxi community is in mourning following the tragic killing of Vusi Mayaba, chairman of the Alexandra Taxi Association. Mayaba, a well-respected figure in the Gauteng taxi industry, was shot and killed in a violent incident last week prompting widespread shock and calls for urgent action to curb gun-related violence in the sector.
The memorial service for Mayaba is being held on Wednesday in Sandton, north of Johannesburg, where family, colleagues, and members of the taxi industry have gathered to pay tribute to his life and leadership.
SANTACO Gauteng, the province’s umbrella body for taxi associations, described Mayaba’s death as a “deep loss” to the industry. In a statement, provincial chairperson
Midday Mali said the frequency of violent incidents targeting taxi operators in 2025 had reached alarming levels, and called for more proactive interventions from law enforcement agencies.
“Mayaba was a dedicated leader whose guidance and commitment had a meaningful impact on the Alexandra Taxi Association and the wider industry,” Mali said. “We are deeply troubled by the continued loss of life within our sector. Stronger measures are urgently needed to protect our members and ensure stability within the taxi industry.”
According to industry sources, Mayaba had been targeted in a deliberate attack linked to ongoing tensions and disputes within the Alexandra taxi sector. Gun-related incidents have increasingly plagued the industry this year, affecting operators and leaders alike, and prompting renewed calls from SANTACO and government authorities to prioritize safety and accountability.
Mayaba’s leadership was widely respected for his efforts to mediate disputes, promote unity among taxi operators, and strengthen operational oversight within the Alexandra fleet. Colleagues described him as approachable, firm in his principles, and committed to the well-being of drivers and commuters alike. His sudden death has left a leadership vacuum within the association and intensified concerns over the safety of those working in the taxi industry.
SANTACO Gauteng has pledged to continue working with law enforcement, government, and community stakeholders to address the root causes of violence in the sector. The organisation is urging anyone with information that could assist ongoing investigations to come forward.
“Vusi Mayaba’s legacy of service, leadership, and dedication will be remembered with great respect,” the statement concluded. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and the entire Alexandra taxi community during this difficult time.”
The Gauteng Police have confirmed that investigations into the killing are ongoing, but no arrests have yet been reported. The incident highlights the continuing risks faced by leaders and operators in one of South Africa’s busiest taxi hubs.
