Gauteng premier reignites debate over cashless taxi payments
Panyaza Lesufi’s push for a digital taxi system aims to modernise transport and reduce crime, but industry stakeholders express mixed feelings about the practicality of a cashless future in Gauteng’s busy taxi sector.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has stirred public discussion by re-announcing plans to make the province’s taxi industry fully cashless.
In a social media post, Lesufi explained that the initiative aims to modernise public transport and reduce crime.
This move, first proposed two years ago, is part of Lesufi’s broader vision to digitise Gauteng’s public transport system.
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The plan involves using smartphone payments, bank cards, and prepaid methods to facilitate transactions within the taxi sector. However, industry stakeholders have shared mixed opinions on the practicality of this shift.
Mbuzeni Maxwell Mhlongo, spokesperson for the Alexandra Taxi Association Fourways committee, expressed skepticism.
“We are aware of this, but I don’t think it’s going to be possible right now. A lot has to be done to ensure all parties involved are satisfied. It could work for long-distance trips, but for local travel, not at this stage.”
Mhlongo added that this move could help taxi owners receive all their payments directly.
Speaking to SABC News, Rebecca Phala, South African National Taxi Council spokesperson, said the organisation is working with several service providers to explore different payment options.
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She stressed that since taxis serve nearly every South African from villages to urban areas, a complete shift to cashless payments is not practical at this time.
Fourways taxi driver Sizwe Hlongwane also shared his views, noting potential challenges. “From our side, it might be a bit difficult, but we will wait to hear more details from our bosses.”
Hlongwane explained that, as local taxi drivers, cash transactions are necessary for them, especially when paying local mechanics or handling small rides.
“For example, if someone travels from Lonehill to Fourways, it’s R10. This will now be inconvenient to that person. Now they will need to have money in their card to be able to get a ride.”
While Lesufi’s initiative aims to modernise and secure the taxi industry, many stakeholders believe that practical issues still need to be addressed before a fully cashless system can be achieved in Gauteng.
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