Taxi Violence
1Min
Johannesburg
Oct 14, 2025
SANTACO in the Western Cape has launched the Taxi Peace Ambassador Programme to curb violence in the taxi industry. Announced at Bellville Taxi Rank, trained representatives will mediate disputes before they escalate. Chairperson Mandla Hermanus said the initiative promotes safety, unity, and non-violence after recent shootings.
The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) in the Western Cape has introduced a plan to stop the ongoing violence in the taxi industry.
Santaco has introduced representatives of their Taxi Peace Ambassador Programme during a launch ceremony held at the Bellville Taxi Rank.
“Today we launch the Peace Ambassador Programme, a movement driving safety, non-violence, and transformation across the minibus taxi industry. Together, we’re building a safer and more unified transport system,” Santaco said.
Santaco’s Provincial Chairperson, Mandla Hermanus, said from each of their eight regions there will be a representative who will be trained to be proactive in resolving issues before they escalate into violence.
The City of Cape Town has recorded more than eight taxi drivers who have been shot dead this year. This situation led to the 30-day suspension of some taxi routes in the province in September 2025. The city called on the affected taxi associations, CATA and CODETA, to protect the safety and dignity of commuters and to use this period productively to pursue sustainable, peaceful resolutions.
Alternative transport arrangements were made for commuters during this time. Golden Arrow Bus Services and Metrorail trains were providing additional capacity to assist residents in getting to work and learners in getting to school, especially during the upcoming school exams period.
