Pray: Deputy Transport Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa, Limpopo Transport and Community Safety MEC Violet Mathye, and SANTACO president Abner Tsebe at the council’s annual national prayer day held at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. Picture Credits: Limpopo Transport Department
By Montsho Matlala
Polokwane: The call to end gender-based violence will continue to reach every corner of South Africa — everywhere taxis travel. This was the message from South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) president Abner Tsebe during the organisation’s annual national prayer day against violence and crime, held recently at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.
“Gender-based violence (GBV) is a national disaster — not only in the taxi industry, but across the entire nation,” said Tsebe. “We are deeply concerned about the escalating GBV in our communities, and we will continue to visit all provinces to spread the message: let us stop GBV.”
He added that the taxi industry is undergoing modernisation to offer a safer, more reliable transport system for commuters, regardless of gender.
SANTACO reiterated its commitment to transformation and inclusive growth in the digital era. Tsebe highlighted the council’s programmes aimed at empowering women, youth, and people with disabilities.
“We are leading the shift towards green, safe, and professional public transport — safe not only during the festive season but throughout the year,” he said.
Deputy Minister of Transport Mkhuleko Hlengwa, together with Limpopo Transport and Community Safety MEC Violet Mathye, amplified the message that GBV has no place in South Africa. Both referenced President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent declaration of GBV as a national disaster.
Turning to road safety, Hlengwa warned that lawlessness on the roads would not be tolerated during the festive season.
“There is heightened traffic police visibility across all major routes to ensure safety during this period. National traffic police officers are positioned strategically to support municipal and provincial enforcement efforts,” he said.
Mathye added that the newly launched Limpopo Road Safety Strategy (LRSS) and Limpopo Road Safety Action Plan (LRSAP) will help curb reckless behaviour among motorists and road users.
