A ZAR1.1 billion COVID-19 relief fund is being disbursed to minibus-taxi, cab and e-hailing drivers in South Africa, who were severely affected by lockdown restrictions in the country.

Fikile Mbalula, Minister of Transport, says the effect of lockdown restrictions presented an economic challenge, as ‘transport operators experienced an unexpected shortfall in their finances. The taxi industry was no exception to this reality. Almost 20% or more of the taxi industry experienced total loss of income, particularly the long-distance and cross-border operators, as a result of the closure of international borders and the prohibition of inter-provincial travel’.

At least 227 000 operators are each expected to receive about ZAR5 000 in a once-off relief payment. Operators must apply to receive funding and meet the necessary requirements, such as being a South African citizen or permanent resident; having a valid operating licence or proof of renewal issued on or before the date the national state of disaster was implemented; and being registered as a taxpayer.

18 January 2022
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