The Western Cape Mobility Department launched what many are calling a “long-overdue turning point” for the minibus taxi industry, a landmark initiative to register taxi drivers across the province, beginning at the bustling Mitchells Plain Main Taxi Rank.

The department says the response was immediate and overwhelming. Within just a few hours, 510 drivers stepped forward to register, signalling a powerful willingness within the industry to embrace change.

Western Cape Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, visited the rank early this morning, engaging directly with drivers and operators. Standing among them, he praised the cooperation shown, calling it “a moment of partnership and progress.”

“Minibus taxis carry approximately 80% of our commuters every day. They are the lifeblood of our economy and a valued stakeholder in our province. But more than that, they are people, workers who deserve recognition, respect, and support.”

He acknowledged the long-standing challenges facing the sector.

“For too long, informality has limited the potential of this industry. Today, we begin to change that. This is about building a transport system that is not only efficient but also dignified and fully integrated.”

Addressing concerns from drivers, particularly around privacy and outstanding fines, Sileku says this is not an initiative aimed at punishing drivers but an opportunity to restore the dignity of the taxi drivers.

“Some drivers may be hesitant to provide their details, fearing this information could be used to track fines. I want to be clear: this is not a punitive measure. We want drivers to take pride in their profession.”

He added that a verified database would unlock new opportunities.

“A verified database will allow us to design structured training and support systems that were not possible before.”

The initiative carries a powerful message: “Enough is enough.”

The Democratic Alliance has called for an urgent 50% reduction in fuel levies, warning that South African households are facing severe financial strain as fuel prices surge.

During a media briefing on Wednesday, DA Finance Spokesperson Dr Mark Burke said many minimum wage earners already spend up to a third of their income on transport, and further increases would have a ripple effect on the broader economy.

The party is proposing that both the Road Accident Fund (RAF) levy and the General Fuel Levy be halved for the duration of the current oil price shock.

Together, the levies make up about R6.35 per litre of fuel, meaning a 50% cut could reduce the price by roughly R3.17 per litre.

This comes as petrol prices are expected to rise by more than R5 per litre, while diesel could increase by over R9 per litre in the coming week.

While acknowledging the move would cost the fiscus around R6.5 billion per month, the DA argues that failing to act would have a greater economic impact, including higher inflation, reduced growth and increased pressure on household budgets.

To offset the loss in revenue, the party has suggested several funding options, including drawing on surpluses from the Compensation Fund and Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), strengthening government spending reviews, and expanding audits to root out so-called “ghost workers” across municipalities and state entities.

Burke said some of these measures could result in long-term savings, even beyond the temporary fuel levy relief.

He has also confirmed that he will formally write to the President and the Minister of Finance, urging immediate intervention.

The DA says urgent action is needed to shield consumers from global oil price shocks, arguing that the government must prioritise cutting wasteful expenditure over placing additional pressure on taxpayers.

Counselling support is being offered at a primary school in Cape Town after parents became aware that their children were allegedly named as targets in a “hit list” by a fellow learner.  

The Western Cape Education Department confirmed that it’s aware of the alleged list, which came to light earlier this month, after parents reportedly expressed concern for their children’s safety.  

A spokesperson for the department, Bronagh Hammond, said the matter is being managed by the school to ensure the safety and well-being of the learners. 

“This is a highly sensitive case that involves minors and the wellbeing of all learners is paramount, which includes the confidentiality of personal information,” said Hammond. 

The Daily Voice reports that the school, in a statement on 15 March, advised that the matter was immediately escalated after learners became aware of the list and reported it to their teacher.  

The learner is reportedly in Grade 6.  

Hammond said the implicated learner is currently not at the school, which is based in Ward 5 in Cape Town.   

“The school will continue to follow its code of conduct in dealing with the matter and the learner implicated in the allegations is not currently attending school,” said Hammond. 

She further advised that an “internal investigation” is being conducted.  

“The investigation will now proceed and the appropriate course of action will determine what is in the best interests of all parties involved.” 

*This article was updated on Thursday, 26 March, to clarify the school’s location without disclosing identifying details.