Members of the Alexandra Taxi Association (ATA) and Alexandra, Randburg, Midrand, and Sandton Taxi Association (Armsta) gathered at KwaShekilanga Sport Ground on Thursday for a full-day event, celebrating leadership and unity within the local taxi industry.

The gathering, organised by ATA in collaboration with Armsta, drew operators, community leaders, and residents from across Alexandra.

The event served as both a celebration and a reflection. It acknowledged the leadership that has helped mend a historically tense relationship between the two associations, while also recognising the challenges that shaped their past.

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For years, conflict between ATA and Armsta disrupted operations and strained community trust. Thursday’s event marked a shift, celebrating the realisation of peaceful engagement and co-operation between the associations.

Taxi industry veteran Lizzy Vundla spoke candidly about the progress made. “Today, ATA can go into the offices of Armsta without fear, and Armsta can do the same at ATA offices.”

Gauteng Roads and Transport representative Thembela Tutu echoed those sentiments, recalling difficult moments in the sector’s history.

“I have been involved with the dark moments between the two taxi associations – one that comes to mind is the issue of Mall of Africa, but today we are here, and we are celebrating unity.”

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The programme included recognition of long-serving association leaders who have contributed positively to the industry.

“The leaders who are here today have fought. The baton is left with the executives,” Tutu added, noting that current leadership needs to continue building on the foundation laid.

Speakers highlighted the importance of collaboration, not only between taxi associations, but also with government departments.

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