The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has launched a comprehensive review of the province’s taxi operating licence system following allegations of fraud, corruption and administrative irregularities within the licensing process.
The move comes after concerns were raised by the Gauteng Taxi Industry (GTI) over the Department’s stakeholder engagement programme and the current model used to issue operating licences. Gauteng Roads and Transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela has defended the review, describing it as a necessary intervention to restore integrity and public confidence in the system.
“The taxi industry remains a critical pillar in the provision of public transport services, moving millions of Gauteng residents daily. The Department values its long-standing relationship with organised taxi leadership and remains committed to building a safe, reliable and commuter-centred public transport system,” said Diale-Tlabela.
She stressed that the provincial government remains committed to working closely with taxi operators while ensuring that governance within the operating licence system is strengthened.
“As government, we are obligated to ensure an efficient, integrated and accountable public transport system. Our engagements with operators are aimed at strengthening communication, improving governance, and ensuring that government remains accessible to all stakeholders,” the MEC said.
Addressing concerns around operating licences, Diale-Tlabela said the review was prompted by issues raised from within the taxi industry itself.
“These interventions are a direct response to allegations of irregularities, inconsistent administrative practices, and possible corruption within the system. We have a responsibility to act decisively to protect legitimate operators and restore public confidence,” she said.
According to the department, preliminary findings from the review have already uncovered discrepancies that require further verification. These early findings have reinforced the need for tighter oversight, improved systems and greater accountability in the issuing of operating licences.
The department also clarified that although the Transport Operating Licence Administrative Bodies (TOLABs) continue carrying out their statutory responsibilities, the Gauteng government remains ultimately accountable for ensuring that the licensing system is lawful, transparent and free from irregularities.
As part of the clean-up process, the department has again appealed to taxi operators, particularly minibus taxi and scholar transport operators, who have been notified that their operating licences are ready for collection to do so before the deadline or risk having their licences cancelled. Operators who have received SMS notifications or communication through their associations have until 14 August 2026 to collect their operating licences.
The provincial government said it will continue engaging with taxi industry leaders through structured quarterly meetings as it works to improve governance, eliminate corruption and ensure a fair and transparent operating licence system for legitimate public transport operators.
