The Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA) has initiated a pilot program for a cashless payment system designed to enhance passenger security and minimize cash-related crimes in the minibus taxi industry. The project, which commenced on June 1, is currently operational on two corridors while the association evaluates performance ahead of a potential broader deployment.
CODETA chairperson Nceba Enge explained that commuters will utilize purpose-built cards, tapped upon boarding, rather than personal bank cards or physical currency. Dedicated loading stations at taxi ranks will enable users to add monetary value, with fares automatically calculated based on the specific route taken. Enge clarified that cash transactions will remain permissible during the initial phase, as vehicle equipment upgrades are still underway across the fleet.
“We deliberately began with two associations to work through any challenges before scaling up,” Enge said. “Our focus now is identifying and addressing gray areas to ensure a smooth transition for all commuters.”
The initiative extends beyond payment processing to incorporate comprehensive safety measures. Participating taxis will be fitted with surveillance cameras, while a centralized monitoring hub will track vehicle locations and movements live. According to Enge, staff in the control room can instantly detect if a taxi deviates from its assigned route and alert operators to investigate. This oversight framework aims to deter robberies, reduce corruption, and eliminate extortion practices at ranks by removing cash from everyday operations.
Enge cited statements by National Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy, who affirmed during a recent industry gathering that digital payment systems represent the intended direction for South Africa’s entire public transport sector. “CODETA is taking a proactive step in this necessary transformation,” Enge noted, adding that the model draws inspiration from existing card-based systems used by Metrorail and Golden Arrow bus services.
Preparing drivers for the technological shift has been a priority. Enge stated that CODETA, in coordination with its national umbrella body SANTACO, has implemented training programs focused on both system operation and customer service excellence. He referenced the prior “Blue Dot” initiative—which equipped more than 800 provincial vehicles with tracking technology—as evidence that real-time monitoring can positively influence driver conduct. The new platform similarly enables operators to verify route compliance and respond promptly to irregularities.
Enge also addressed wider industry modernization efforts. He recalled remarks by the Western Cape Transport Minister regarding a long-term vision of taxi drivers adopting formal attire as part of professional standards. “There is a psychological element to that—when you dress professionally, your approach to service shifts,” Enge observed, while acknowledging that cultural change requires patience and sustained engagement.
The chairperson appealed for continued government partnership, particularly concerning vehicle affordability. Enge highlighted that resources previously designated for taxi scrapping programs are now being redirected to support lower installment plans—targeting monthly payments under R10,000, compared to the approximately R17,000 currently required for new minibus models such as the Toyota Quantum.
Should the pilot demonstrate positive outcomes, Enge indicated that CODETA would promote the framework to taxi associations in other major centers, including Durban and Johannesburg. “Once we have refined the system here, we will share our experience and encourage adoption nationwide,” he said.
In the interim, commuters using the Khayelitsha and Mfuleni routes are encouraged to obtain the dedicated cards and familiarize themselves with the loading process. CODETA has assured the public that transitional arrangements will remain in place to accommodate all passengers while the association gathers feedback for potential province-wide expansion.