Minibus taxis continue to serve as the backbone of public transport in South Africa, transporting millions of commuters each day. While many passengers rely on them for daily travel, opinions about the service vary sharply, with some residents raising concerns over driver behaviour, while others defend the safety and affordability of the mode.
VOC News spoke to several commuters about their experiences. Some raised concerns about erratic behaviour behind the wheel, while others praised the taxis for being reliable and safe.
“I’ve had a few bad encounters, especially with the young ones. They have no way of speaking while passengers are waiting on their van to load. The driving is so bad. They’re running the robots unnecessarily. Oh, and that loud music — I can’t take it.”
Another commuter shared a contrasting view:
“I’m always safe. I prefer taking a taxi. All the years I’ve been taking taxis rather than e-hailing, I never got robbed, never got hijacked. So, for me, taking a taxi, I feel more safer,” said another commuter.
SANTACO Western Cape Chairperson Mandla Hermanus acknowledged the challenges, but defended the drivers, noting the long and demanding hours they work.
“Most of the time, our taxi drivers need to be at the rank by 4AM. That means they wake up around 3 every morning and operate all day — usually until about 9PM,” he explained.
Hermanus added that the ongoing shift in work patterns, especially due to remote work, has reduced the number of commuters, increasing financial strain on the industry.
“There’s always a lot of pressure, especially given the economic climate. People are working differently now, with many still doing remote work. Our business has taken a knock, and that then transfers to the drivers in terms of what they are able to cash in at the end of the day. Drivers operating on less lucrative routes are always under a lot of strain because there’s pressure to bring in a certain amount.”
Listen to the full interview with Mandla Hermanus here:
VOC News
Photo: VOCfm
