Taxi industry strike was in many ways a lesson in three main kinds of diplomacy - the good, the bad, and the ugly.

The taxi industry strike was in many ways a lesson in three main kinds of diplomacy - the good, the bad, and the ugly.

That it occurred at all is an indictment on the failure of key stakeholders to settle their differences without dragging the rest of society into a tailspin of bitter accusations. Several people died during the strike, and South Africa suffered major reputational harm. The disruption to public transport and the economy took many by surprise, and to a large extent the damage cannot be undone, certainly from a human suffering point of view.

However we take heart from the fact that the crisis did at least focus attention on the taxi industry, which doesn’t always get the recognition – nor the support – it deserves on account of its essential role. Since the strike began we have seen acres of newsprint, commentary and opinion pieces, regarding the industry and how best to effect reforms. Should the industry receive a user-based subsidy? Can fares be digitised? Can the sector be coaxed into the mainstream economy to the benefit of both commuters and the national fiscus to the tune of an estimated R5billion income tax?

The continuing media and public interest in the strike suggests taxis hold a fascination that goes beyond their role in public transport. Apartheid, crime, culture, inequality, and a touch of Mzansi magic (or is it madness?) are all bumper stickers on the taxi debate whose time has come.

The Cape Chamber is also proud of the role we played in facilitating debate between Santaco and government authorities. As an organisation first and foremost concerned with growing the economy, the Chamber’s perspective can add value to a dialogue that is easily hijacked by political agendas. We intend staying the course to ensure this matter is resolved in everybody’s best interests. 

John Lawson
CEO of the Cape Chamber of Commerce & Industry