04 Aug 2023 | 10:32 AM UTC
South Africa: Minibus taxi drivers' strike ongoing Aug. 4; violence reported in and around Cape Town /update 1
Minibus taxi drivers' strike is ongoing in the Western Cape, South Africa, Aug. 4; violence and disruptions occurring around Cape Town.
Event
Civil unrest has been reported in various locations on Aug. 4 amid an ongoing minibus taxi strike led by the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) in the Western Cape Province. The strike started on Aug. 3 and is scheduled to continue until Aug. 9. The bulk of reported incidents have occurred in and around Cape Town. Reports have emerged of road blockages along the major N1, N2, and N7 highways. Acts of arson have occurred near taxi ranks. Protestors have allegedly set fire to at least two Golden Arrow passenger buses in the lower-income area of Khayelitsha; one driver was injured. Police have also noted incidents, including stone-throwing against vehicles, in Harare, Wynberg, Atlantis, Hout Bay, and Milnerton. MyCiti buses have suspended their D01 and D02 routes to Khayelitsha over security concerns. The City of Cape Town has requested an urgent interdict against the strike. Cape Town International Airport (CPT) has reported longer waiting times at security checks due to staffing shortages.
Ground transportation disruptions are almost certain to persist, particularly in Cape Town and immediate surrounding areas. Protests, consisting of demonstrations, go-slow convoys, and roadblocks, are likely along major road routes, near taxi ranks, in city centers, and near airports and government buildings. Heightened security is likely near all protests. Increased employee absenteeism and increased demand for alternative forms of transport, particularly bus and train services, are likely. Additional acts of vandalism or arson are possible, especially near taxi ranks in Cape Town, along major highways, and in lower-income areas. Potential targets of violence may include buses and e-hailing drivers. Clashes amid protests are possible, and confrontations between striking and non-striking drivers may occur.
Context
The minibus taxi industry is responsible for a significant portion of South Africa's transport services. In Cape Town, SANTACO regroups both the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) and Congress of Democratic Taxi Associations (CODETA) which together control the majority of the city's taxi industry. Frequent disputes over ownership, security standards and driving conditions between Western Cape Authorities and taxi associations have led to repeated bouts of protest and violence.
The current taxi strike is related to the impoundment of minibus taxis for traffic violations following the collapse of negotiations with the provincial government. Tensions resumed on Aug. 1 when taxi operators staged a spontaneous protest in Cape Town's CBD, during which drivers clashed with the police. This also follows similar protest actions in November 2022 and February 2023.
Advice
Avoid all protests, taxi ranks, and areas recently impacted by violence. Exercise caution if utilising alternative forms of public transportation, particularly in lower-income areas. Do not drive through roadblocks until officials have cleared them. Heed the instructions of officials. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure. Plan for increased demand for available alternative transport and increased employee absenteeism or delays. Plan for delays going towards or from Cape Town International Airport and for longer waiting times at airport processing.
