Taxi industry reforms must include pensions for drivers, says Santaco

Taxi drivers can spend decades transporting millions of South Africans but reach retirement without a pension.

The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) said this must be addressed as it pushes to professionalise the industry.

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Santaco KwaZulu-Natal spokesperson Sifiso Shangase said the industry was taking steps to improve passenger safety, root out criminal elements and create dignified, sustainable jobs for drivers.

The council’s proposed measures include stricter safety regulations, improved driver training, cashless payment systems and the formalisation of taxi operators.

However, the push comes amid ongoing concerns about reckless driving, violence and disputes, placing pressure on the sector to show that its commitments will bring meaningful change for commuters and workers.

Shangase said professionalisation should not focus solely on passengers and road safety but also address the working conditions of those who keep the industry running.

“For many years, taxi drivers have worked in the industry, but when they retire, they have no pension funds,” he said.

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The industry must create sustainable jobs that are dignified.

Shangase said Santaco intended to work with government, law enforcement agencies and local communities to improve discipline and protect commuters.

“This initiative is about restoring dignity in the taxi industry.

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“We want commuters to feel safe, and we want to show that our sector can operate with the highest level of professionalism,” he said.