Taxi routes reopen

The Western Cape Mobility Department has reopened all previously closed taxi routes following a month-long shutdown triggered by deadly clashes between rival groups

The routes, which were closed on 17 September after six people were killed amid violent disputes between the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (Cata) and the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (Codeta), were officially reopened at midnight on Friday.

The affected routes linked several key communities, including Khayelitsha, Mfuleni, Lwandle, Nomzamo, and Somerset West.

The closures had also affected lanes at major taxi ranks in Khayelitsha, Mfuleni, Somerset West, Nomzamo, and Lwandle, disrupting daily travel for thousands of commuters who depend on minibus taxis as their main form of transport.

However, while the restrictions have been lifted, not all taxis have resumed operations as both associations continue talks with the provincial government.

Cata spokesperson Nkululeko Sityebi said discussions were still ongoing, as Codeta spokesperson Makhosandile Tumana confirmed that some taxis had started operating again.

Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku announced on Thursday his intention to extend the closure for another 30 days.

However, after further consultations, he reversed the decision on Friday evening.

Sileku said: “After careful consideration of the representations received, I have decided not to issue a second closure notice, and as such, the current closure notice automatically lapsed at midnight, 17 October, 2025.”

He added that both Cata and Codeta could resume operating in line with their existing permits and urged them to prioritise peace and commuter safety.

He further confirmed that law enforcement agencies would continue monitoring the routes closely to ensure that violence does not flare up again.

“Our law enforcement agencies will be monitoring the situation on the ground closely to ensure the safety of commuters and the broader public,” he said.

Both taxi associations have, in recent months, accused one another of encroaching on operating territories, sparking recurring tensions and sporadic acts of violence.