Issued by the Government Communication and Information System
21 January 2000
Much improved conditions await South Africa's estimated 126 000 mini-bus taxi drivers, under the Government's Transformation and Recapitalisation Project which is now close to implementation. In one of the major and final steps before implementation, drivers, owners and commuters are to be given the opportunity to give their views on the products of the shortlisted companies selected to do a final presentation, and to give their opinion as to which will be the best choice for the industry.
This important process will take place at the Kyalami Exhibition and Conference Centre at the Kyalami racetrack on Thursday, 27 January and Friday, 28 January. The show which will be open to operators, commuters and drivers and also members of the public who make use of taxis, from 9 'o clock in the mornings until 5 'o clock in the afternoons and attendees will be supplied with a form on which to record and submit their opinions on the selection of vehicles. In addition, operators will also be fully informed on how the recapitalisation process, which will provide them with a new vehicles, is to work.
The multi-billion rand project which will see all existing mini-bus taxis replaced with new purpose-built passenger 18-seater and 35-seater diesel-engine vehicles over the next four years, will come into effect by the fourth quarter of the year. The scheme brings together various government and taxi industry objectives mapped out over the past five years.
First and foremost, drivers and commuters will greatly benefit from greater vehicle safety. The past festive season has again highlighted the dangers inherent in old, badly maintained vehicles in which drivers and commuters lost their lives. The new vehicles will provide the driver and owner greater protection in that it will conform to specified high safety standards, be regularly serviced through the coverage of a full maintenance plan and greater comfort, and therefore lower the risks inherent in the operations of the industry.
"Along with these benefits will come greater respect for South Africa's drivers and the very important contribution the industry makes daily to keep the country's economy going. Recognition for the important role the industry plays is long overdue, and the Taxi Recaptilisation Project will enable the vision for the industry to be realised whilst at the same time improving the efficiency and safety with which more than 65% of our commuters are transported daily.
"In addition, the comfort and convenience of newer vehicles will also attract new commuters from other transport sectors which will inevitably increase the total fleet size of the proposed greater capacity vehicles.
"We urge every taxi driver, operator and commuter, that can possibly attend the show at the Kyalami Exhibition and Conference Centre, to do so because your opinion of the vehicles available is crucial in assisting to make the right decision.
For more media information contact Karin Pearce, Recapitalisation Project Manager, on 083 680 7031.
For exhibition information contact Pula Dippenaar on 082 448 2387, or Colin Horn on 012 310 9950.