Rival taxi associations CATA (Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association) and CODETA (Civic Organisation of the Developmental Taxi Association) have officially inked a peace agreement in a significant step towards restoring peace and stability in the public transport sector.
This much-needed accord was signed on Tuesday, 24 June 2025, following a series of high-level discussions aimed at mending a rift that has led to devastating conflict over the Mfuleni to Somerset route.
The strained relations between the two associations have been characterised by violent incidents, including deadly taxi shootings and murders, which have plagued the Mfuleni–Somerset corridor and caused upheaval at various taxi ranks, notably those in Somerset West.
With public safety at risk and commuters suffering disruptions, the Provincial Mini-Bus Taxi Task Team convened recently to call for calm and resolution.
The signing of this peace agreement is lauded as a promising development by the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) of the Western Cape.
The council emphasises the monumental shift this agreement represents for the transport industry, highlighting a shared commitment between CATA and CODETA to foster a safer, more reliable transport system for all commuters.
‘Both associations recognised the necessity of ensuring commuter safety, operational clarity, and stability within the taxi industry,’ SANTACO stated, as reported by Smile FM.
As a testament to their dedication, CATA and CODETA have pledged to collaborate closely moving forward. This cooperation is positioned as a cornerstone for establishing a harmonious public transportation environment within the province while simultaneously addressing the historical grievances that have led to unrest.
In a bid to reassure the public, SANTACO has conveyed sincere apologies for the inconveniences caused during this turbulent period. The urgency to remain proactive in tackling and resolving pressing issues within the public transport landscape has been stressed, with a focus on fostering sustainability and reliability.
Earlier this month, Cape {town} Etc reported that a group of taxis blocked most routes near the Public Transport Interchange (PTI), effectively shutting down the local taxi rank due to rising violent tensions between members of the CATA and CODETA taxi associations.
Also read:
Taxi wars: Road users to avoid Somerset West Taxi Rank as violence erupts
Picture: Unsplash
