Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku has issued a notice of intent to extend the closure of several mini-bus taxi routes and lanes for a further 30 days, following a month-long period of extraordinary measures that have helped restore peace in the public transport sector.
The closures, first implemented on September 17, 2025, under Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act, affect key routes including Khayelitsha–Somerset West, Lwandle–Khayelitsha, and Mfuleni–Somerset West, as well as specific lanes at Khayelitsha, Mfuleni, Somerset West, Nomzamo, and Lwandle taxi ranks.
The government invoked these measures after a series of violent clashes between the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) and the Congress Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA), which resulted in several deaths and disrupted transport services in the region.
Minister Sileku said the extraordinary measures had “been effective in restoring peace on the affected routes, safeguarding lives.”
He added: “We have seen no further acts of violence or disruptions since these measures were first implemented. This period has created the necessary space for both associations to engage constructively in pursuit of lasting peace.”
The notice of intent gives CATA and CODETA 24 hours to provide comment, as officials continue to facilitate dialogue between the two associations.
Minister Sileku emphasised the precautionary nature of the extension.
“The decision to file a notice of intent extending the extraordinary measures is a proactive and precautionary step while dialogue continues. We will continue to closely monitor the situation and urge both associations to intensify their efforts to reach an agreement. Our collective aim remains to protect lives, promote safety, and stability in the public transport sector.”
The provincial government maintains that these extraordinary interventions are necessary to prevent further violence, ensure commuter safety, and provide a stable environment for public transport operations while talks continue.
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