VOTED AFRICA'S #1 PUBLIC TRANSPORT MAGAZINE 2016/2017
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Official magazine of National Taxi Expo 2017 In support of
SOUTH AFRICA'S BEST SELLING TAXI OWNERS MAGAZINE
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Winter 2017 Edition #17
Retail Price R19, 99 VAT Included
WHY #1 UPCOMING SUPERSTAR
MALLY driving the taxi drivers crazy with his smashing hit new single 'SBIZELWE' ?
BREAKING NEWS Soweto taxi rape suspect and Quantum taxi have been identified PLUS IN THIS ISSUE NTA to acquire 50% stake in the taxi industry biggest tradeshow – National Taxi Expo Department of Labour sets new minimum wage for the Taxi Sector
THE FRONT ROW Futuregrowth provides R300m to stimulate growth in the taxi industry
BAW invests R250m to upgrade Springs taxi plant 10 reasons why your taxi insurance claim could be rejected
DON’T FORGET TO BOOK YOUR STAND AT THE NATIONAL TAXI EXPO 2017
CHAIRMAN’S FOREWORD “TOWARDS GROWTH & ECONOMIC PROSPERITY IN THE SOUTH AFRICA TAXI INDUSTRY” safety is the responsibility of all of us, and not only the National Taxi Alliance. There is a growing focus on a system of public transport that is reliable, safe and comfortable, and which responds adequately to the demands of passengers. National Taxi Alliance has welcomed all of the voices within the public transport arena, and in particular, the growing confidence of commuters in the transformation of the taxi industry environment. Even though the old and non-roadworthy state of the taxi fleet is one of the major contributing factors to road accidents, the role of reckless drivers who do not respect the rules of the road and the rights of other road-users, should not be underestimated. It is necessary as well to focus on the role played by taxi drivers in taxi operations. Commuters have the right, at all times, to travel in safety and in comfort, with operators expected to deliver high levels and quality of services. It is the responsibility of Government and traffic authorities to keep operators on their toes and ensure that they respond adequately to passenger demands. Taxi magazine is such an initiative striving to enhance road safety. Objectives: Taxi magazine is placing special emphasis on further educating those drivers who are committed to providing quality service in roadworthy vehicles, while driving safely and with courtesy. Taxi magazine communicates the key message that road
Taxi magazine is also aimed at improving the image of the taxi industry by prioritizing the empowering of taxi bosses as well as customer care. Taxi drivers are motivated not only to respect their passengers, but respect the rights of pedestrians as well. Taxi magazine posed opportunity for partnerships between business and private sector to invest in the taxi industry "and help develop skills". The National Taxi Alliance believes this publication contribute immensely towards stemming the carnage in South Africa's roads. The National Taxi Alliance has emphasized that this publication continues to demonstrate its commitment to promoting safety driving and the social upliftment of both its members and their respective commuters. We continue to seek new partners who share our Alliance's vision and who will contribute to our continued growth and prosperity. Francis Masitsa Chairman
PUBLISHER’S FOREWORD There is a growing focus on a system of public transport that is reliable, safe and comfortable, and which responds adequately to the demands of passengers. Government has welcomed all of the voices within the public transport arena, and in particular, the growing confidence of commuters in the transformation of the public transport environment. The efforts to provide quality public transport are not only efforts undertaken by the Government, but also independent initiatives and partnerships by commuter organizations, community based organizations, business associations and public transport operators to complement the efforts of Government. Even though the old and non-roadworthy state of the taxi fleet is one of the major contributing factors to road accidents, the role of reckless drivers who do not respect the rules of the road and the rights of other road-users, should not be underestimated. It is necessary as well to focus on the role played by taxi drivers in taxi operations. Commuters have the right, at all times, to travel in safety and in comfort, with operators expected to deliver high levels and quality of services. It is the responsibility of Government and traffic authorities to keep operators on their toes and ensure that they respond adequately to passenger demands. By providing an incentive to safety conscious drivers we can enhance both the safety of minus commuters and other road users sharing the roads with minibus taxis. Taxi magazine is such an initiative striving to enhance road safety by addressing and rewarding road safety amongst our minibus taxi drivers!
OBJECTIVES The aim is to impact on taxi driver behavior by reminding them of their responsibility to commuters and the larger community. The magazine is placing special emphasis on further educating those drivers who are committed to providing quality service in roadworthy vehicles, while driving safely and with courtesy. Taxi magazine communicates the key message that road safety is the responsibility of all of us, and not only the Government This magazine is also aimed at improving the image of the taxi industry by prioritizing the training of drivers in advanced driving skills as well as customer care. Taxi magazine initiative posed opportunity for partnerships between business and private sector to invest in the taxi industry "and help develop skills". I personally believes this publication will contribute immensely towards stemming the carnage in South Africa's roads.
TAXI DRIVER REACTION Readers of Taxi magazine have made important comments and even suggestions on how they have - and wish to continue to enhance road safety: “I believe it starts with oneself, when you treat people with respect and ubuntu, you will gain respect as well. Training alone will not make you a better person but you need to show willingness to work with people and learn from them...” “Set goals for yourself and have a vision, including being professional about your work as you want other people to take you and your work seriously. During Public Transport Month we need to ensure those few (people) who will be using our transport (taxis) are not tempted to going back to using their own cars but rather show what a convenient means of transport taxis can be…” “My wish is to see all taxi drivers including owners receiving training particularly with 2015 coming to have a positive mind and attitude….”
“Taxi organisations and taxi owners should encourage their drivers to do advance driving courses to improve their driving skills and prevent road accidents…” “I have learnt new things. For example I have learnt that when you drive on a rainy day, you should be very careful and try to ensure that there is a (proper) distance between your car and another one.” “It is critical that all drivers adhered to traffic rules because they are dealing with people's lives…” “Taxi drivers like to drive fast on the roads. I think they should be careful and ensure that commuters reach their destinations safely.” “I will do my best and try to be the best taxi driver on the road from now on. I have learnt so much and will carry on trying…” “I hope this competition will not stop here but continue to encourage all the taxi drivers out there…”
TAXI MAGAZINE ADVERTISER REACTION Sarah - TaxiStyling I would thoroughly recommend advertising in the Taxi magazine. As a small business, we were sceptical about the initial financial outlay but it has certainly been worth it. The phone hasn’t stopped ringing since! We are a small business and the fact that we advertise on a regular basis in this popular and established magazine gives our customers confidence that A Perfect Solution are here to stay. Loyiso and the team have been full of help and advice and have helped immensely with the initial design of our advert.
David – Taxi Parts Dealers Each time the Arrow Advertiser is posted out there is an immediate increase in the number of telephone enquiries which more than pay for the advertising. Also I find people have cut out my advertisement and it is pinned on a cork board when I visit. Good value advertising. Taxi magazine continues to demonstrate its commitment to promoting responsible consumption and the social upliftment of both taxi drivers and their respective commuters. Taxi magazine is the only publication in the country that features positive worthy news and articles about the South African taxi industry, our constant goal is to surpass the success edition of the previous quarter edition. Until next time, drive safe. Sincerely yours,
_____________________ (Uloyiso Ngavu)
VOTED AFRICA'S #1 PUBLIC TRANSPORT MAGAZINE 2016/2017
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SOUTH AFRICA'S BEST SELLING TAXI OWNERS MAGAZINE Publishing Editor Loyiso Ngavu editor@sataximagazine.co.za Directors Loyiso Ngavu Chantal Kruger Tony Ramaphosa Special Thanks to: Gauteng Department of Transport, National Taxi Alliance, Taxi Tracker, , SANews.gov.za, Babalwa Buthelezi, Nick Sally, Gordon Clive, Misani Ngavu, Sfiso Ndebele, Kobus Venter, Rob Dickson, Themba Ngavu and Vusi Khumalo. Chief Operations Officer Sam Adams sam.adams@jozimedia.com Creative Director Nipun Garodia artwork@jozimedia.com Visual Communications & Design Werner Freudiger studio@jozimedia.com
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DISCLAIMER This publication is compiled through the use of provided information provide by interested parties, providers and advertisers. The information is offered with the explicit condition and understanding that the accuracy of such information is not guaranteed in anyway and that any decision based on the information should be confirmed at its source. The publisher, nor its employees, service providers accept any responsibility for any loss or damage caused in whichever way as result of incorrect information provided in this publication. Anyone using the information provided by this publication, does so at their own risk, and by using such information agrees to indemnify Taxi Magazine from any and all liability, loss, injury, damages, costs and expenses (including legal fees and expenses) arising from such use.
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CONTENTS 12 Toyota and other 30 entities targeted by Taxi industry 13 Department of Labour sets new minimum wage for the Taxi Sector 13 Soweto taxi rape suspect and Quantum taxi have been identified
FUTUREGROWTH PROVIDES R300M TO 20 STIMULATE GROWTH IN THE TAXI INDUSTRY
14 UDM welcomes investigation into billions of rand lost due to negligent health care workers, statement by Bongani Msomi 15 Mathabatha retains ANC provincial chairperson post 16 Helen Zille’s trip to Asia cost taxpayers R1.1 million 17 Mkhacani J. Maswanganyi, Minister of Transport 19 Yookoo Rider: Changing the metre taxi industry 26 BAW invests R250m to upgrade Springs taxi plant 27 The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offers Crosswind Assist 28 How to save money on taxi maintenance 30 Commuters and road safety in South Africa 32 NTA to acquire 50% stake in the taxi industry's biggest trade show: National Taxi Expo 36 Why #1 upcoming superstar Mally driving the taxi drivers crazy with his smashing hit new single 'Sbizelwe' ?
HEALTH TIPS FOR TAXI DRIVERS 42
38 Help us keep the emergency lane open for when it’s needed for real emergencies 40 10 reasons why your taxi insurance claim could be rejected 41 Five ways the Consumer Protection Act can help you!
IN THE NEWS
Toyota and other 30 entities targeted by Taxi industry The mass Taxi Industry Protest Action Committee, the taxi industry splinter group that brought production to a halt this week at Toyota South Africa Motors’ manufacturing plant in Durban, has a list of more than 30 entities it plans to target. The protest at Toyota signalled the commencement of the group’s ongoing rolling protest action to highlight the taxi industry’s total exclusion from the industry’s value chain and bring targeted entities to the negotiating table. MP Filtane, a spokesperson for Mass Taxi Industry Protest Action Committee, confirmed to Business Report that further entities on the list would be targeted for protest action this month. The targets include vehicle manufacturers, banks, insurance and fuel companies and government entities. Filtane confirmed SA Taxi, part of listed Transaction Capital, was one of the targets. The list also contains four government entities, the national transport and trade and industry departments, the Industrial Development Corporation and Public Investment Corporation. Filtane said SA Taxi had a market share of about 50percent of the taxi vehicle financing market and was by far the largest financier of vehicles for the taxi industry in the country. He claimed SA Taxi had the biggest refurbishment centre in the country and its financing model was based on the expectation that taxi operators would not pay off their vehicles but default on their repayments, resulting in the vehicle being repossessed, refurbished and resold. Filtane said there were also instances where SA Taxi charged taxi operators prime plus 18percent on vehicle financing deals. Mark Herskovits, executive director of Transaction Capital, said there were an estimated 200000 minibus taxis in South Africa and at end-March this year SA Taxi finances was financing 27142 vehicles, which equated to a 13.5percent market share and gross loans and advances of R7.8billion. Herskovits added that SA Taxi was a developmental credit provider, which in terms of the National Credit Act prescribed a maximum interest rate of 34percent. He stressed SA Taxi’s pricing was risk based, resulting in interest rates ranging from 18percent to 28.5percent. “SA Taxi’s weighted average interest rate at origination as at March 31, 2017, is 24.9percent,” he said. Herskovits said that the claim that SA Taxi’s model was based on repossessing, refurbishing and reselling the vehicle as “unfounded and commercially uninformed. No business would be sustainable if it lends money merely to repossess the article,” he said.
of about 11.5percent, which meant 88.5percent of SA Taxi’s book was anticipated to go to full term. He said SA Taxi’s investment in refurbishment infrastructure helped it mitigate credit losses. By investing in refurbishing vehicles, SA Taxi was able to recover higher amounts on defaulted accounts to the benefit of both SA Taxi and the client. The refurbishment centre also served as repair workshops for clients that were insured with the company, he said. Herskovits added that participants within the minibus taxi industry were characterised as underserved small and medium enterprise taxi owners, with SA Taxi filling a critical funding gap and providing credit to entrepreneurs who were typically considered high risk and would otherwise be excluded from the formal economy given their credit profiles. “It is estimated 90 percent of SA Taxi’s client base is considered unlikely to be able to gain access to traditional finance.
Herskovits said SA Taxi currently expected a default rate
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BREAKING NEWS
by: Sihle Booi & Kgotso Makhura
Department of Labour sets new minimum wage for the Taxi Sector The Department of Labour has increased the minimum wages for the taxi sector by an average of 6,2 percent as from next month (01 August 2016). The new increases mean that drivers’ minimum wage will increase monthly from R3,030.67 to R3,218.57; weekly from R697.13 to R742.80 and hourly from R14.51 to R15.47. The administration workers’ minimum wages will rise as follows: monthly from R3,020.67 to R3,218.57; weekly from R697.13 to R742.80; and hourly from R14.51 to R15.47. Rank marshals minimum wage will increase monthly from R2,414.63 to R2,564.33; weekly from R557.26 to R591.81 and hourly from R11.60 to R12.32. The workers working in the sector and not specified, their wages will increase monthly from R2,112.81 to R 2,243.80; weekly from R487.60 to R517.83 and hourly from R10.15 to R10,78. Proudly brought to you by
The new boarding allowance (where an employer require an employee sleep over at a place other than where the employee resides) will increase from R329,29 to R349,70. The Taxi Sectoral determination provides guidelines to minimum wage and other basic conditions of employment as per legislation.
Soweto taxi rape suspect and Quantum taxi have been identified
Call her Quantum‚ passengers say after mom gives birth in taxi
The Gauteng Community Safety MEC, Sizakele Nkosi Malobane and the National Taxi Alliance (NTA) have revealed that a suspect and a white Quantum minibus taxi which has been picking up unsuspecting women around Soweto and raping them, have been identified.
Their colleagues have nicknamed them the "obstetrics ambulance"‚ such is a paramedics team’s penchant for delivering babies. Five months after they delivered a little one on a railway line in Shongweni‚ Netcare 911 paramedics Elmi Changuion and Walter Molife delivered a baby - this time in a minubus taxi on the M13 near the St Johns bridge on-ramp in Pinetown.
This comes after a woman was raped for four hours in the back seat of a taxi in full view of her 10-year-old son on Saturday.
"The pregnant 31-year-old lady went into labour unexpectedly while commuting in the minibus taxi. The driver was made aware of the situation and he pulled over to the middle island‚”said Netcare 911 spokesman Nick Dollman.
It has been discovered that the taxi in question is registered with the NTA and the perpetrators are expected to be brought forward. According to reports, more women have come forward to speak about being raped in similar incidences. South Africans have been up in arms since the news broke out and opposition parties have had their say on the matter.
“Road Traffic Inspectorate traffic officers who were stationed nearby went to investigate and were told of the situation. They knew that the Netcare 911 paramedics were stationed nearby so one rushed to their location to call for help.”
Making reference to Saturday’s incident, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, EFF spokesperson, says black women have become the most affected with some being harassed at police stations by officers who are supposed to assist them.
Changuion‚ Molife and advanced life support paramedic Craig Venter arrived on scene within two minutes.
“It must be put on the record that taxi ranks remain unsafe spaces where toxic, violent, predatory black masculinities are often allowed and given platform to express themselves with impunity. Not long ago, a black woman was subjected to an orgy of violence in Noord Taxi Rank for wearing a short skirt,” said Ndlozi.
"There was no time to move the mom to the ambulance and the minibus taxi was emptied to create space and privacy. The Netcare 911 team safely delivered the baby in the taxi before moving mom and her little girl to the ambulance‚" Dollman said. The taxi's passengers joked that the baby should be named "Quantum" after her birthplace.
The DA says it is submitting Parliamentary questions to the Minister of Police, Fikile Mbalula, to find out how many similar incidents have been reported in each province across the country. They also want all taxis operating on the road to be registered with an association and to be clearly marked with which association they belong to.
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“Quantum” and her mother were taken to hospital.
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POLITICAL NEWS
Compiled by: Anati Khoza
UDM welcomes investigation into billions of rand lost due to negligent health care workers, statement by Bongani Msomi
Mangosuthu Buthelezi visited Gupta home in Saxonwold too - preceded by a menu request When Inkatha Freedom Party leader Mangosuthu Buthelezi visited the Gupta homestead in Saxonwold‚ Johannesburg‚ he came bearing demands for a healthy meal. Leaked emails provide some details into his visit to Saxonwold last year‚ making a detour from attending a funeral in Pretoria. He was accompanied by his son Zuzifa Buthelezi. Visitors to the Gupta mansion remain a source of speculation and interest and numerous politicians and businesspeople are reported to have passed through their gates including Finance Minister Malusi Gigaba‚ Water Affairs Minister Nomvula Mokonyane‚ Department of Cooperative Governance minister Des Van Rooyen and Eskom CEO Brian Molefe among others. Last year the two Buthelezis‚ accompanied by five VIP protectors‚ had earlier sent the IFP president's dietary requirement for consideration by the family.
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is shocked by the exorbitant amount of tax payers’ money that is lost because of the Department of Health’s negligence. Spending R43 billion on lawsuits is ridiculous and it is even more concerning that nothing much is being done to put a stop to the wastage.
An email dated May 2‚ 2016 from Buthelezi's secretary Lyndith Waller‚ said Buthelezi would join the family for lunch the following day at 1pm. “With regards to dietary requirements‚ the Prince is diabetic and follows a strict diet. I attach details hereto. If it is not possible to bring chicken or fish into your home‚ please cater for sufficient steamed vegetables and salad. He is unable to eat spicy food‚” part of the email reads.
We cannot be losing money, and especially not such a large amount, due to the carelessness of medical practitioners and health workers. Reports in the public domain allege that some universities, such as University of KwaZulu-Natal, sell medical qualifications to dropouts and/or undeserving graduates. This alleged practice could be exacerbating the problem and can be avoided if proper vetting is done.
A list of “more healthier” food was provided as options for various meals. This included grilled fish or chicken‚ nuts‚ cheese‚ crackers with butter‚ Golden Delicious apples and rooibos tea.
If bogus doctors are identified, the Department must “blacklist” them so that they are not employed anywhere in the public service. Patients who use our public health care facilities deserve better.
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TimesLive requested comment from Prince Zuzifa Buthelezi who said he was in a meeting and unable to immediately comment. Mangosuthu Buthelezi was travelling to Cape Town and also unable to immediately comment.
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Mathabatha retains ANC provincial chairperson post Limpopo Premier Stan Mathabatha is set to retain his position as the ANC provincial chairperson after his faction won the Sekhukhune regional elective conference uncontested.
Stan Ramaila, the Sekhukhune district mayor and his other four officials were elected unopposed. The clique, which comprised Mathabatha supporters, was supposed to have been contested by those who allegedly back former deputy chairman Dickson Masemola to unseat Mathabatha at the party’s forthcoming provincial conference which is likely to be moved from Februarynext year to December this year. But they made a U-turn when they discovered they only had 51 delegates over Mathabatha’s 237 candidates. Masemola, who is allegedly an ally of Mathabatha’s nemisis and provincial secretary Nocks Seabi, could not be reached for comment at the time of going to press. Three senior ANC members, who attended the conference, confirmed the contest was between Mathabatha and Masemola’s emissaries and the latter were defeated. “It is an indication that Stan still has support in the Sekhukhune region which is his home ground and his victory has actually set the tone for the provincial conference,” said a party heavyweight who did not want to be named.
Another ANC official confirmed the outcome of the Sekhukhune region has given Mathabatha fresh hope that he might win provincial conference if he contests. “But let’s see what happens in other regions before we jump the gun,” said the official. By late yesterday Vhembe delegates were still to vote for their preferred chairman between former Thulamela municipal manager Makonde Mathivha and current chair Tshitereke Matibe at a regional conference held at Tshedza Lodge in Makhado yesterday. In the Waterberg conference which will be held before the end of July, the contest has been confirmed to be between the current regional chairperson Morris Mataboge, who is Seabi’s ally and Jack Maeko, an ally of Mathabatha. In the Peter Mokaba conference, which will also be held before the end of July, the chairmanship position contest is set to be between incumbent Diwet Monakedi and his deputy John Mpe. In Mopani, the contest is between chairman Seaparo Sekoati and Phalaborwa mayor Pule Shayi.
Another ANC veteran also confirmed Mathabatha‘s proxies emerged victorious over Masemola’s but cautioned the incumbent‘s supporters not to be comfortable.
ANC provincial spokeswoman Khumbudzo Ntshavheni confirmed the current Sekhukhune leadership was elected uncontested but declined to comment further.
“The region might have rejected him but it might vote for him at the provincial conference. Remember there is a possibility that Stan might not contest election,” said the official.
“The newly elected chair said the outcome of the conference does not necessarily mean the region is united, the leadership must rise up and unite the organisation,” she said.
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Helen Zille’s trip to Asia cost taxpayers R1.1 million ANC provincial chief whip Pierre Uys said the ruling party would ask the auditor-general to investigate the trip to be clear on what it entailed and what it achieved. Western Cape premier Helen Zille’s trip to Asia, accompanied by her husband, Johann Maree and three officials from her department, reportedly cost taxpayers at least R1 million.
her for the first time in eight years on an official government trip. “According to the handbook he may come on every trip,” she was quoted as saying.
Zille travelled to Singapore and Japan and allegedly spent R636 159 on “travel, accommodation and other others”, and R500 000 was paid to Wesgro, a provincial government entity tasked with encouraging economic growth and investment in the Western Cape, but does not fall under Zille.
ANC provincial chief whip Pierre Uys reportedly told the publication that the ruling party would ask the auditorgeneral to investigate the trip to be clear on what it entailed, what it achieved and whether it was legal for the department of the premier to make that payment to Wesgro “in that way”.
The company also organised seminars during the trip, Sunday Times has reported. Zille reportedly told the publication she realised that the amount spent was “hefty”. She, however, further said it meant an average of R127 000 per person all expenses included, “which is within a reasonable ballpark for this kind of trip”. Two officials stayed for two weeks while she and her husband and Dr Laurine Platzky, the deputy directorgeneral for strategic programmes in her department stayed for nine days. She further told the publication to bear in mind the exchange rate. She also did not take a personal secretary to “save the costs”. Her husband, who reportedly did research, went with
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Following the trip, Zille received criticism for her tweets on colonialism, saying it was not “only negative”. The former DA leader made reference to the apparently positive legacy of colonialism to “our independent judiciary, transport infrastructure, piped water”, among other things. Despite the scathing response she received on Twitter, Zille continue to justify her view, making further reference to “specialised health care and medication”, which she said would not have been possible without the “colonial influence”. Later after that, she apologised “unreservedly for a tweet that may have come across as a defence of colonialism”.
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KNOW YOUR MINISTER
Mkhacani J. Maswanganyi Minister of Transport He was born in Dzwerani Village in Vhembe District Municipality, before his family was forcefully removed by the Apartheid regime to Mudabula Village for the creation of a Bantustan. Minister Maswanganyi served in the Limpopo Provincial Government Executive Committee. In 1999 and 2004 Minister Maswanganyi was appointed to the positions of MEC for Local Government and Housing and Limpopo MEC for Sport Arts and Culture respectively. Minister Maswanganyi served as Member of the Limpopo Provincial Legislature in 1994 and Member of the Portfolio Committee on Public Works in 1997 giving the Minister solid and broad grounding in matters of parliamentary governance. He also served as a Permanent Representative of the Northern Province Legislature at African Region Conference, Lesotho (1996 - 1996). Minister Maswanganyi was elected in 2014 in the Limpopo Provincial Executive Committee. He was the Chairperson and Convener of International Relations Sub-Committee. It was also in the same year that Minister Maswanganyi served as the Chairperson of Public Administration Portfolio Committee and appointed to the Nelson Mandela Bay Regional Task Team.
Minister Maswanganyi also held the following positions: • Political Education Officer - Youth League, African National Congress, Far North Region (1991 - 1991)
The Minister also served as a Member of the Transport Portfolio Committee and a Member of the Standing Committee on the Auditor General in 2015.
• Provincial Executive Member - Youth League , African National Congress, NP (1991 - 1991)
He previously served as a Chairperson for the Public Service and Administration portfolio Committee in the Limpopo Legislature. In 2016 he was deployed by the ANC in Limpopo to Parliament as an ordinary Member of Parliament.
• Public Relations Officer - Students Representatives Council, Tivumbeni College (1990 - 1990) • Political Education Officer - SANSCO (1990 - 1990) • Chairperson - Tlangelani Youth Congress (1987 - 1987)
These government positions had been preceded by a long history of activism and advocacy by Minister Maswanganyi through the branch work of the South African Students Congress and the African National Congress including work as ANC Youth League National Deputy President in 1998, while also serving as Convener of the International Affairs Sub-Committee.
• Member - Students Representatives Council (1989 - 1989) • Member - ANC Malamulele sub-region, Limpopo (1991 - 1991) • Member - ANCYL Provincial Executive Committee Limpopo (1991 - 1995)
In 2008-2011 Minister Joe Maswanganyi served as the Limpopo ANC Provincial Secretary while he had been reelected as Limpopo ANC PEC Member in 2005.
• Executive Committee Member - African Region: Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) (1996 - 1996)
Minister Maswanganyi has served these positions while deeply committed to academic education and intellectual advancement completing two Masters Degrees in Governance and Transformation in 2006 from the University of the Free State and a Master’s degree in Political Science from the University of Venda in 2016.
• Leader - Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Conference Zimbabwe (1997 - 1997) • Leader - SA Youth Delegation to Cuba to attend World Youth & Students Festival (1997 - 1997)
Minister Maswanganyi is also a teacher by profession. He was a teacher at Matsambuhs Giyani (1991 - 1992) and Hlalukweni High School (1992 - 1993).
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Taxi alliance concerned owners could be punished for bad drivers
KZN launches ride-hailing app for meter taxis Durban Shaking up the ride-hailing industry in the province, the KwaZulu-Natal Meter Taxi Alliance has launched its own mobile app.Alliance chairman Sizwe Mvubu said the app - Easy Ride SA - would revolutionalise the meter taxi industry.
The National Taxi Alliance (NTA) is concerned that a new amendment bill currently before Parliament could penalise taxi owners for the behaviour of individual drivers.
“We've been using walkie talkies that make a lot of noise and annoy the clients," he said. "The app will enhance communication between the client and the service provider"
The portfolio committee on transport heard on Thursday that the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences Amendment Bill doesn't differentiate explicitly between owners and drivers in its proposed punishment for taxi offences.
The app - which will start working next week and will also have a map that will prevent drivers getting lost on unfamiliar routes - came about after a national taxi council conference hosted in Durban two weeks ago. Mvubu said various developers had pitched ideas and they opted for Udobo Holdings' on-demand transport solution A2B.
"The Act is unclear as to whether the word 'person' or 'operator' refers either to the owner or the driver," NTA president Mohanoe Masitsa said during public hearings into the bill.
“The app was designed for us and will be owned by meter taxi operators,” he said.
"The question which arises is whether the phrase 'operating a motor vehicle' extends to the right of an owner to allow his vehicle to be driven on a public road."
Call-in option Developer Sibusiso Simelane said Easy Ride SA was designed for drivers and clients.
The proposed penalty for a taxi driver who exceeds the suggested demerit threshold is a suspension of their licence for 32 days.
“The clients will use cash, debit cards and in-store accounts to pay the service provider," he said. "We intend to engage ticket outlets and offer our services as part of their package, to capitalise on events,” said Simelane.
Masitsa asked that the bill clarify the rights of owners when drivers, who rent their vehicles, break the law on the road. He also said the duties imposed on owners are unrealistic, given that many drivers who rent vehicles are not in possession of a written lease for their respective homes, and therefore can't be served notices at an address.
He added that they would also allow for offline bookings for non-smartphones users and through a call-in option.
"Ironically the responsible person will never lose his licence because the fine would not have been served upon him, either by registered post or by personal service.
“The client will go into Easy Ride SA and make a reservation with a service provider of their choice. Should their service provider not be available close by, the app will link the client with any service provider nearby.”
"The penalty will then rebound on the owner of the vehicle."
Growing the industry
If more than one of their drivers commits an offence at the same time, a greater burden is placed on the owner's shoulders than on the individual guilty of the offence, Masitsa said.
Meter taxi operators who want to join up will have to first register with the alliance. They will then be given a reservation date for training. The alliance said the registration would include verifications of driving and operating licences, and professional driving permits by the eThekwini Transport Authority.
NTA secretary general Alpheus Mlalazi also appealed to the department of transport to work with the taxi industry in drawing up legislation, and not treat them as "strangers".
Mvubu said meter taxis would also have to go through roadworthy tests.
Mlalazi said the taxi recapitalisation programme was the best thing to happen to the taxi industry, and is evidence of how the department and the industry can work together.
“A task team will be formed to inspect the vehicles regularly, because the intention is to grow the industry and not destroy it,” he said.
Public hearings into the amendment bill continued on Thursday.
The alliance hopes to expand in the future by having a site that will host a call centre to handle reservations and technicians to provide assistance to clients and drivers.
Business Unity South Africa and the Southern African Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association were also due to present before the committee.
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Yookoo Rider: Changing the metre taxi industry Scoring goals is not Kenny Niemach’s only talent. While most will remember the former Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs hit-man for his prolific goal scoring record, Niemach is, in fact, a man of many skills.
After retiring from professional football, he ran a number of successful nightclubs and pubs. He even tried his hand at radio presenting, football coaching, analysis, and commentary. “I tried many things, it’s just in my nature,” Niemach says. The Dutch-born footballer simply doesn’t buy into the notion that footballers are all brawn and no brain. In the next month, Niemach together with his Joburgbased IT company Yookoo Incorporated, is launching South Africa’s newest cab-hailing app in Joburg. The app, Yookoo Rider, which is similar to popular cab-hailing app Uber and Taxify, is set to connect users with hundreds of metered cab drivers around the country. His firm has teamed up with the SA Meter Taxi Association in the hope that meter taxi drivers can “reclaim their relevance on the road” . He explains how the country’s traditional metered taxi industry has taken a “huge knock” with the arrival of cabhailing apps such as Uber and Taxify. This has caused conflict between app-based cab services and traditional meter taxis. “The association has existed for a very long time but nobody has come in and operated a parallel business,” he says. “They’re suffering, so we took it upon ourselves to develop an app that will help them compete.” But meter taxi drivers will no longer have to fight their rivals with “sticks and stones”. The association even has a stake in the company. YooKoo’s new features include a panic button, which alerts armed response, an on-board entertainment centre, which a passenger can use while travelling, as well as voice prompts.
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“We also have a messenger application, so should the driver not have airtime, he or she can use the messaging system.” “The drivers will undergo a lot of training including etiquette training so they know how to treat their passengers. “If you’re in the service industry, you need to know how to treat your customer. You need to ensure that the customer comes first. And these are things that we are currently addressing. “We’re running workshops where we are teaching drivers how to dress, and how to engage with customers. It’s important because these drivers’ reputations have been tarnished because of the past. “We want to change that image now as a company and want them to really succeed with the technology.” Passengers will be able to view the driver’s pictures and personal details before booking. “When you book a driver, all of his/her information comes up. You’re able to see a picture of the driver that will be picking you up along with all his/her personal information. “You can either choose to take the driver or not, that is all up to you. We have a rating service so passengers will be able to check the ratings of drivers and decide whether they want to use him or her. “All drivers will also have to put their fingerprints through our thumb print system, so there’ll be no falsified information, therefore eliminating any criminal element.” Niemach adds taxi fares and rates will be “very competitive and fair. It’s not going to be a rand more than Uber is offering.” The app will be launched countrywide next month and is available for download for free on android and IOS.
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THE FRONT ROW
Futuregrowth provides R300m to stimulate growth in the taxi industry
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Futuregrowth Asset Management has provided funding in the amount of R300-million into the taxi industry. Taxis are the main mode of transport for millions of South Africans every day, and the industry has been disrupted over the past couple of years with the emergence of Uber, particularly among the middle- to upper-class. Futuregrowth’s funding goes to SA Taxi, South Africa’s largest financier of minibus taxis, which, in turn, will use the money to provide financing to the company’s Zebra Cabs owner-driver scheme. SA Taxi acquired Zebra Cabs metered taxis in 2015. David O’Sullivan spoke to Gerswhin Long, investment analyst at Futuregrowth about the project. – David O’Sullivan What is the nature of this investment? Ultimately this is an investment into the taxicab industry. There’s one thing that I really like about this investment. It’s essentially funding SME’s, or funding entrepreneurs, so your typical Uber model would be a situation and we’ve seen this typically in the market where you have investor who buys a vehicle from and finances by the bank and then he employs a driver and typically the drivers don’t do that well because of the whole profit sharing situation that they have with the Uber investor. The initiative that we funded now is specifically for owner drivers, so you cannot have a situation where an investor comes in and employs someone to drive for him. The reason we like that is, it stimulates entrepreneurship, and ultimately a vibrant SME market would lead to a vibrant economy. In a nutshell, Zebra is a subsidiary of SA Taxi and they provide funding specifically for Uber or for Zebra Cabs.
Why did you go with SA Taxi? Well, SA Taxi is an interesting one. We’ve been dealing with SA Taxi for well in excess of ten years, we’re very, very comfortable with management, we know the guys quite well, and they’re quite a conservative bunch. I must also add that we’ve seen various other players in the market approach Futuregrowth for funding for similar initiatives. The reason we went with SA Taxi specifically is that they really have that infrastructure backbone in place. What SA Taxi can offer the entrepreneur ultimately is a fully integrated solution. What I mean by that is from the sale of the vehicle to maintenance of the vehicle, to providing clients for these entrepreneurs, to funding the vehicle, so it’s a totally integrated package that they offer relative to other players in the market who just do financing for instance. If I can just draw a parallel David, with the banks for instance, the banks would finance an Uber driver by just providing the financing and off the driver goes and they don’t really interact with that entrepreneur again. In terms of SA Taxi there’s a range of value-added services, some of which I’ve mentioned, but others would be, for instance, they would provide driver teaching facilities, helping the drivers manage their cash flow for instance, helping them with client interaction techniques, all of these which lead to the driver being more successful ultimately.
What is the relationship between SA Taxi and Zebra Cabs? I believe SA Taxi acquired Zebra Cabs. Yes, SA Taxi acquired Zebra Cabs around 2015 and Zebra Cabs now form part of the SA Taxi Group.
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Is the funding from Futuregrowth Asset Management then going towards Zebra Cabs and their owner-driver scheme? Yes, it’s going to Zebra Cabs, but ultimately this forms part of the SA Taxi Group (the funding that we provided into a specific SPV, special purpose vehicle). The taxi industry is quite a volatile industry, sometimes unregulated; it gets a bit of a bad name. Why are you confident that, that is an industry where you feel your money is safe? Yes, the taxi industry is an interesting one, but SA Taxi as a group; they’re actually one of the guys in the industry that’s bettering the industry. There are many things that they do in the market, such as for instance, I mentioned the driver development, and in some cases they do advanced driving classes, they have very good relationships with the regulators both on a national and on a provincial level, so if you’re going to come into the taxi industry, this is definitely the guys you want to finance, they’re the guys trying to improve the industry.
It’s important for you thought to have complete confidence in SA Taxi. You obviously have this long-standing relationship. You view SA Taxi as something of a pioneer of innovation in the taxi industry, don’t you? Yes, definitely. In terms of pioneering the industry, just the way that they manage their books, why we’re comfortable with them is the initiative that we’re funding now is very, very similar to what the taxi industry looked like ten years ago when we started funding SA Taxi. If I can just draw the parallel with the minibus taxi industry, there you have a very fragmented market. There aren’t big players in the market, there are many independent guys going around and at the time when we started funding SA Taxi, the fleet was very old, the general taxi fleet within South Africa. That
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presented an opportunity for us to fund them and for them to recapitalise the market. We’re seeing a similar trend in the meter taxi industry where you have a situation where there is close to 20 000 meter cabs in the industry, but access to finance has been a problem for these guys that play in the market. In addition to that the fleet is also quite aged and the older your vehicle is, the less productive you are as an entrepreneur, so it’s important for these guys to continually upgrade their vehicles and therein lies the opportunity for SA Taxis.
You’ve mentioned what it is about the Uber model that you don’t like where you see the advantage for SA Taxi, Uber though has completely disrupted the taxi industry and they show an incredible growth. Do you think there’s still a demand for metered taxis? It seems that possibly is something that is being phased out as people prefer to go the Uber route in terms of booking a taxi, paying for a taxi. Maybe I should bring this point in as well. SA Taxi or Zebra is not a direct competitor to Uber. SA Taxi is in effect their non-bank financial institution. They provide financing for people going into the market. Essentially what they could do is they could fund an entire fleet of Uber cabs for instance and that would still stack up in terms of their business model because they provide financing for vehicles essentially. The second point is there is definitely a need for cabs. The point that I’ve made earlier is that there’s close to 20 000 (it’s around 17 000 cabs) going in the industry at the moment and of that a very small portion, close to 15 to 20 percent is actually Uber drivers. There’s a very, very big independent cab driver community out there and that is a big opportunity for SA Taxi because they ultimately want to recapitalise those vehicles and get newer vehicles on the market and get these guys hopefully onto their platform, which would make SA Taxi more profitable ultimately.
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Will they be getting their drivers into system similar to Uber’s where an app dictates the way taxis are booked, an app dictates the way a taxi is paid for? I think that’s one of the benefits of Zebra Cabs as well. They have this app, it’s up and running, it’s been going for a few months already, but in addition to the app, there are multiple hailing methods or multiple methods in which clients can actually book a ride on Zebra Cab. For instance, you can road hail, (you can stand along the side of the kerb and just call a cab, just put out your hand, call a cab), you could call their call centre, as an example, you can use their website. They also have relationships with corporates whereby they enter into contracts with corporates and the corporates use them to transfer staff essentially. So there are multiple methods in which you can book via the Zebra Cab platform which is a benefit to the drivers ultimately because you don’t just want to be reliant on an app.
In what other way is SA Taxi different from Uber? The SA Taxi or the Zebra initiative is different in another way in terms of the payment method. Currently, Uber, you can pay with credit card and in some instances cash as well. Zebra allows for cash, they allow for credit card, they allow for e-wallet, so there are numerous payment methods as well, you’re not reliant solely on the app to make your payment. They’ve actually entered into an arrangement with one of the banks and they’ll have point of sale devices in the vehicles so you can pay with your credit card, cash, or e-wallet. It just makes the rider experience a little bit better in terms of payment.
SA Taxi also mentions the way in which it can differentiate itself from Uber and one of the things is that they are partnering with corporates in Johannesburg to meet their transport needs, what can you tell me about that?
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That would be large corporates. It’s basically getting a corporates on their books. SA Taxi would form the relationship with the corporate. If the corporate wants to make a booking to transfer staff from one point to another they would contact Zebra and Zebra would then route that request through to their underlying cab drivers. Essentially SA Taxi, they’re leveraging their standing in the market to source business for the underlying cab drivers and obviously the underlying cab driver benefits from that, so he’s getting miles on the clock or clients in his car and it comes from a source, SA Taxi ultimately.
Perception is a big issue as well and we’ve seen so many taxis on the roads in South Africa that are in a terrible state of repair. You’ve mentioned that SA Taxi has upgraded the fleets and that the research shows that the average age of a metered taxi fleet is five years. Are you satisfied then that SA Taxi continually looks at the fleet and looks at the equipment and the comfort of the cars that are being made available? Yes, definitely. We’re very comfortable with that David. What actually SA Taxi does is drivers that are on the Zebra platform specifically, and you’re a hundred percent right when you say perception is a big thing in this industry. Also just to draw a parallel with the minibus taxi industry again, for the minibus you can have a couple of dents in the minibus and people will still ride, with a cab if you pull up with a whole lot of dents in your cab, you’re not likely to get a client as easily. So what Zebra Cabs does is twice a month these guys actually need to report to SA Taxi head office and they’ll do an inspection on that vehicle just to see that everything is still up to scratch and that the standards are maintained because ultimately they want to put a name out there, they want to put a brand out there and seeing that the car is in perfectly good condition is one of the ways that they can boost their brand relative to competitors. I believe this initial funding then is earmarked for expansion over a two-year period, give me a little bit more information on that.
How it works is, the initiative is running in Johannesburg at the moment. Ultimately, the objective would be to move into other cities as well, Cape Town and Durban probably being the next ones, but for SA Taxi it’s about getting that presence in one city, just being known in one city before they branch out. The process here is, essentially this funding would be used to get the Johannesburg section up and running and then expand from there. Obviously Futuregrowth gets involved for financial considerations, Gershwin, to what extent are you motivated by the developmental focus here, looking at development and empowerment in South Africa of South Africans? Yes, David. That’s a very big consideration for us. At the moment Futuregrowth has about R170bn of assets under management and a very big portion of that is specifically driven towards development finance initiatives. We have a fund that deals specifically with these things, that’s called the Infrastructure and Development Bond Fund and that’s one of the largest funds of its kind in South Africa, so it’s a very big focus for us and then the SME angle was a very big driving factor for us entering into this investment as well. One of the big focuses for Futuregrowth is to invest into projects where there’s a positive social spinoff and this definitely ticks the box in that regard. TAXI MAGAZINE
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HALALA! HALALA! HALALA! HALALA!!!
Congratulations to the Taxi Magazine team for achieving this prestigious award in Africa. TAXI MAGAZINE
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INVESTMENT
BAW invests R250m to upgrade Springs taxi plant Beijing Automotive Works (BAW) and the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) will invest R250-million to expand and upgrade its minibus taxi plant, in Springs, Gauteng.
The facility currently assembles the Sasuka 16-seater taxi from semi knocked-down kits, for the South and Southern African market.
IDC CEO Geoffrey Qhena said the IDC supported the opportunity to introduce more competition to the local taxi industry.
The expansion of the facility, announced in Springs on Monday, will see BAW South Africa (SA) assemble the Sasuka from completely knock-down kits (CKD), as from March next year.
The industry is currently dominated by the Toyota Quantum, assembled in Durban.
Apart from a general upgrade of the plant and facilities, the investment will enable the construction of a new body assembly plant, paint plant, trim plant, a larger component warehouse to support full production and a new parts and accessories warehouse. Capacity at the plant, on a single shift, will be 500 units a month. The expansion is expected to add an additional 100 permanent jobs, in positions ranging from production to quality assurance, logistics, after-sales, marketing and management. The plant is a joint venture between BAW (51%), the IDC (24.5%) and James Chung’s Golden Gate Trust (24.5%). Speaking at the sod-turning ceremony, BAW SA consultant Tony Godycki, from AG Consulting, said the more complex CKD assembly process would increase local content on the minibus taxi to at least 35%, which would see the Sasuka qualify for duty benefits in terms of exports to countries in Southern Africa. Local CKD assembly would also lead to duty-free importation of Sasuka kits into South Africa. Godycki said BAW SA already sourced components such as brake pads, springs and filters locally, and would look to add parts such as glass, tyres, radiators and seats to the list.
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The BAW assembly facility was established in 2012, with an initial investment of R196-million.
New Products Planned The Sasuka is available with a 2.7 l petrol engine. BAW planned to introduce a 2.8 l diesel engine variant next month, noted BAW SA CEO Zhang Wei. He added that the Sasuka was sold with a 500 000 km service plan as standard, as well as insurance that covered the vehicle and passengers. Wei said there were BAW taxis operating in South Africa which had notched up more than 500 000 km on the clock. BAW has become directly involved in customer finance through the formation of its own finance company. Wei said BAW was investigating the possibility of introducing a panel van, as well as electric minibus to the local market.
China in SA The Chinese Embassy’s Lian Zhaoshan, from the Economic and Commercial Counsellor’s office, said bilateral trade between South Africa and China reached $9.145-billion in the first three months of 2017, which was a 28.3% increase on the previous year. To date, he added, around 150 large and medium-sized Chinese businesses had invested in South Africa.
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The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offers Crosswind Assist as standard for all its models in all body lengths and all roof heights. Crosswind Assist gives the driver and passengers a substantially enhanced feeling of safety. The compelling overall package means the Sprinter is incomparable in the taxi segment
PRETORIA – For years, the South African taxi industry has regarded the 16 and 22-seater Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 311, 315, 319, 515 and 519 as the benchmark for safety, frugal fuel economy and reduced Total Cost of Ownership. As from 1 April 2017, these workhorses now come standard with Crosswind Assist.
with sustainable cost-effectiveness and exemplary safety. All these characteristics help keep our taxi customers’ businesses profitable and make them successful. This is leadership that pays off!” says Vusumzi Vusani, Product and Marketing Manager for Mercedes-Benz Vans southern Africa.
Crosswind Assist detects strong gusts of crosswind and helps the driver of the taxi to stay on course. At speeds over 80 km/h, it corrects the taxi’s course by means of automatic braking intervention on the wheels on the side of the vehicle facing the wind.
In addition, what makes the Sprinter the vehicle of choice for taxi operators and drivers is the standard CharterWay® Service BestBasic 5-year/105 000 km service plan. It assists taxi operators to concentrate on their business’ core requirements of providing reliable transport solutions to passengers across South Africa and beyond its borders. This is done by offering guaranteed vehicle availability and reduced administration.
The specific braking intervention by Hydraulic Brake Assist, which is activated by ADAPTIVE ESP®, produces a response that markedly reduces lateral drift. In this way, Crosswind Assist gives the taxi driver and passengers a substantially enhanced feeling of safety. The system filters out weak crosswind signals and Crosswind Assist becomes active only when a certain threshold is exceeded. Crosswind Assist is available for all Mercedes-Benz Sprinter -models in all body lengths and all roof heights. The Sprinter is no stranger to introducing “industry first” features, having celebrated being the pioneer of fitting disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels as standard, as well as the ABS anti-lock braking system. “By fitting the Crosswind Assist as standard on all its taxi offerings, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is set to further dominate the industry. With such a compelling overall package, the Sprinter is an incomparable investment in the taxi segment. It combines supreme quality and reliability
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Once again, the CharterWay® BestBasic 5-year/105 000 km service plan is an industry-first from Mercedes-Benz. Not having to pay for a service gives taxi operators complete peace of mind when buying a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. As an all-inclusive service plan package, the CharterWay® Service BestBasic plan covers all items prescribed by the Mercedes-Benz service schedule for the stipulated mileage and/or period of the contract. For more information on the CharterWay® Service BestBasic 5 year/105 000 km service plan for the MercedesBenz Sprinter, please contact your nearest Mercedes-Benz dealer. Media enquiries: Sibusiso Mkwanazi Tel: 012 673 6864 | Cell: 082 560 0214 e-mail: sibusiso.mkwanazi@daimler.com
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TAXI DEALERSHIP
By: Loyiso Ngavu
How to save money on taxi maintenance This article is proudly sponsored by
Buying a taxi – new or used – is not a decision to be taken lightly. For prospective buyers, one of the major considerations is the purchase price. However, another important factor to consider is how much it will cost you to maintain that taxi. Here are the steps you can take to keep your taxi maintenance costs as low as possible, whether you are servicing an old vehicle or a new car that is no longer under warranty. Research before you buy First and foremost, it is important that you do your research before you make a purchase decision. The cheapest taxis aren’t necessarily the most affordable to maintain. In fact, the added cost of ownership could come as quite an unpleasant surprise. Fortunately, here in South Africa, there is the annual Kinsey Report on parts pricing, which provides taxi owners and prospective buyers with a guide to some of the costs involved in servicing and maintaining taxis.
Read the manual This is an important step in getting to know your taxi. The manual contains valuable information on the maintenance schedule and stipulates which service parts need to be replaced when. Armed with this knowledge you will not only be able to ensure that your vehicle is maintained properly
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but also that no unnecessary work is done on it. Remember that servicing your car regularly is in itself a cost saver as a poorly maintained vehicle could result in costly repairs further down the line. Depending on the make and model of your taxi, the manufacturer will have guidelines on when it will need to undergo a minor or major service. There is a significant difference between the two, as detailed in the handbook.
Minor service The word minor doesn’t imply that it is of less importance, only that the actual service will not take too long to complete. The goal is to prevent unnecessary wear and tear and damage or failure to the taxi’s parts. Minor services need to be done more frequently than major services and while they can vary between different makes and models, the following will be done:
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• Oil and oil filter will be changed • Brake, clutch and power steering fluid, coolant, filters, belts and hoses will be checked and topped up or replaced if necessary • Brakes will be checked and serviced if necessary • Tyres will be checked and rotated as per manufacturer recommendations
Major service As the name implies, a major service is more thorough than a minor service. In addition to the items mentioned for a minor service, the following will be inspected and/or replaced: • Spark plugs • Cambelt • Ignition, fuel injection, the exhaust system, emission control and the transmission
Do preventative maintenance With very little effort you can identify and address small problems with your taxi before they become major issues which could be expensive to fix. You should do regular taxi inspections to ensure that everything is in tip-top shape. • Pay attention to warning lights, which could be an indication of a serious and costly problem. • Check the tyres (including the spare) regularly and ensure that the tread depth complies with legal requirements. • Be aware of irregular wearing of tyres which could mean that the vehicle’s wheels need to be balanced. • Checked the battery regularly to ensure that the clamps and terminals are clean.
Do some things yourself Apart from the points mentioned above, there are certain aspects of your taxi’s service that you can handle yourself, particularly if the taxi isn’t new. Even with very little skill you should, at the very least, be able to check and top up fluids. More skilled owners could even replace fuel and air filters, brake pads and oil. There are plenty of DIY tutorials on the internet and once you have
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the hang of it, you’ll be surprised how easy it is and how much money you save. It might even be worth your while to attend a short course on basic taxi knowledge and maintenance, as presented by the AA.
Find a reputable and trustworthy workshop When the time comes to take your vehicle for a professional service, avoid being taken for a ride and find a reputable workshop or a trustworthy mechanic who is familiar with your brand and make of taxi. If you own a new taxi you will have it serviced and maintained through a dealership, but you are under no obligation to use the same dealership you bought it from. To find a reputable dealership, check online for customer complaints and compliments, or get recommendations from family members and acquaintances. For older taxis, the choice becomes much wider. You could still use a dealership, but there are also plenty of nationwide chains that offer great service. And don’t forget to check with private workshops and mechanics in your area. It would be wise to have your taxi serviced by someone who is accredited by the Retail Motor Industry (RMI), as this will give you recourse in the event of a complaint. Visit www. rmi.org.za for a full list of accredited members. Remember that prices differ, not only in terms of parts but labour too, so get quotes from a few establishments before you book a service. Once you have found a workshop or mechanic you are comfortable with, stick to that place or person for maintenance work to your taxi. This way they will get to know you and your taxi and you will have the peace of mind of knowing that you are dealing with someone you can trust.
In conclusion At the end of the day it’s a case of fortune favouring the informed. If you know your taxi, are aware of the manufacturer’s specifications in terms of the servicing and maintenance and don’t skip any of the prescribed services, you should enjoy many hassle-free kilometres and it needn’t cost you an arm or a leg.
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ROAD SAFETY
Commuters and road safety in South Africa This article is proudly sponsored by
The Department of Transport has confirmed that the safety and rights of commuters remains one of the Department of Transport’s main priorities. The Government has through the voice of the Minister of Transport expressed the objective to renew public transport fleets such as trains, buses, and taxis and to make sure that our commuter rights; comfort, safety and dignity are respected in all spheres of transport services. Unfortunately we find media releases every day of taxi passengers flung from deteriorating and non road worthy vehicles. These unfortunate individuals seldom have a variety of choice between vehicles and are inclined to jump on the first available vehicle. The Arrive Alive Road Safety website has decided to compile a summary on the safety of commuters on the roads of South Africa and to reveal the strategy of government to address the challenges facing commuters and transport operators.
What are the rights of these commuters? Public transport passengers have the right to: • Freedom to choose the public transport mode or vehicle from those available that they would like to use, where this choice affects their safety
any form of harassment or discrimination • Transport services that provide value for money. What should be expected from public transport operators and their passengers? • Transport operators at all levels should maximise efforts to improve safety. • Good road behaviour should include stopping at traffic signs, safe speed, safer following distance and not driving under the influence of alcohol. • Taxi operators and bus operators must respect the rights of the passengers they transport from one place to another and commuters should be treated as contributors to social and economic development.
• Drivers with valid license and professional driving permits
• Operators must ensure that their vehicles are driven by drivers who are medically fit to drive public passengers and are in possession of valid professional driving permits at all times.
• Reliable services that transport them according to schedule or expectation
• Drivers MUST pay attention to passenger safety, rights and respect passengers.
• Travel on vehicles that are not overloaded or overcrowded
• Drivers must listen carefully to passenger complaints, identify problem areas and if appropriate take action to remedy the situation.
• Safe public transport services and roadworthy vehicles
• Professional and courteous treatment from the drivers and staff of all public transport operators • Travel on a public transport service without experiencing TAXI MAGAZINE
• It is the responsibility of operators to display the public
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transport charter in all public transport vehicles in a position clearly visible to passengers and to display telephone numbers or addresses on vehicles where complaints should be directed. • It is also the responsibility of operators to prohibit drivers from harassing, intimidating or molesting passengers and to take action against drivers who do so. • Passengers have the responsibility to make sure that vehicles stop before boarding or alighting, pay the valid fare for the trip and show tickets for inspection when required. • Commuters have the right to ask the driver not to exceed the number of passengers permitted to be carried in the vehicle or board a vehicle, which is overloaded. The Department of Transport has urged passengers, drivers and transport operators to treat each other with respect and dignity to achieve the goals of sustainable, affordable and reliable transport services.
Commitment from Transport Authorities Transport Authorities are aware that road safety for commuters can only be achieved through a partnership between Government, public transport operators and the public. The Department of Transport has committed towards providing the regulatory framework for such cooperation and has revealed guidelines and plans to enhance commuter safety: • Operators have the right to be paid the valid fare in full by all passengers, adequate, clean, secure and well managed public transport facilities, including stops, ranks and termini.
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• They also have the right to adequate road infrastructure that is managed in such a way as to allow for safe and cost-effective public transport operations and traffic management that ensures that public transport services can operate effectively. • Regulatory and administrative processes that are efficient and effective for example operating licence applications and permit conversions and assistance in educating drivers and passengers on their rights and responsibilities are key in addressing challenges that affect the rights of all parties. • Cabinet approved the Public Transport Strategy and Action Plan in 2007. • The strategy aims to radically accelerate the improvement in public transport by focusing on modal upgrading and establishment of Integrated Rapid Public Transport Networks, which will include Priority Rail Corridors, and Bus Rapid Transit networks in our cities. • The strategy is supported by the Public Transport Action Plan, which focuses on the implementation of the strategy and sets out implementation in a phased and incremental manner. Government has accepted the responsibility to ensure that commuter and operators’ rights are respected. In accepting this responsibility government has pledged to work earnestly to maintain the networks that will require city-wide, transport authority controlled networks of rapid public transport corridors together with feeder systems of smaller buses, taxis, bicycles, pedestrian access as well as metered taxis and park and ride facilities.
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NTA to acquire 50% stake in the taxi industry's biggest trade show: National Taxi Expo National Taxi Alliance announced last month that it is to acquire a 50% interest in taxi industry biggest event – National Taxi Expo for an undisclosed amount. Business Networking Opportunities at the Annual National Taxi Expo® Held in Johannesburg, South Africa. Does your company have a unique product and/ or service that helps a taxi business? Exhibit your company at the largest and only national business to business trade show and conference for taxi owners where National Taxi Expo® attendees shop for products & services from vendors like you. NTA said its business model, sophisticated public transport system and changing the image of the taxi industry business model. "We believe that National Taxi Expo will provide the entire taxi industry in SA with the opportunity to learn, do business and network with the taxi industry key role players," NTA said. For more info: 011 036 2977 or send email to: events@jozimedia.com Web: www.santex.co.za
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TAXI MUSIC
Why #1 upcoming superstar Mally driving the taxi drivers crazy with his smashing hit new single 'Sbizelwe' ? Mally has been creating music since he was a child, and is considered among today’s most talented upcoming artists in SA. He grew up in Ladysmith, one of Kwazulu Natal’ poorest villages. Mally is set to release his new single after facing many trials and tribulations. Malibongwe Sithole musician, MC and motivational speaker (born 11 September 1983) known professionally as Mally, he has been drawn to music since his childhood and was heavily influenced by the sounds of Phuzekhemisi, Ihashi Elimhlophe, Ray Phiri, Spikiri, NaakMusiqand the late Lebo Mathosa. However, it was not until the age of 16 that he actually possessed an amazing voice, thanks to his mother who quickly noticed her son’s talent after she heard him singing around their house. Encouraged by this supportive woman to see some local producers, the sixteen-years-old boy satisfyingly made his way to get the attention of a small production team so that they agreed to help him record a few songs as his demo. “There were ups and downs,” he described the process. “But I loved it and I knew I wanted to do it.” Mally is rapidly becoming a household name. The demand for his presence on major festivals is showing the young artist that he has a strong future ahead, yet, a huge responsibility to spread the South African music across the globe. He’s also collaborated with SA top artists including Alaska, Skhokho, AB Crazy, Mshoza and many more other artists. His distinctive sound and style has influenced numerous Afro House upcoming artists. In February 2017, at Jakarumba’s 50th Birthday Celebration, he met Loyiso Ngavu, the founder of Jozi Records, who was impressed enough with his skills and performance to give him one of his business card. Ambitious, Mally continued to call him until he took him under his wing and let him hang around the label’s offices. As of March 12, 2017, Mally had officially been signed to a new label, Jozi Records. He is currently working on his new album that will be released in October entitled “Mallination”Featuting the Smashing Hit Single “Sbizelwe”. He added that if anybody wanted to get a copy of his single they could download it from iTunes.
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ROAD SAFETY
Help us keep the emergency lane open for when it’s needed for real emergencies
A worrying trend has developed on the highways and byways of South Africa where motorists are using the emergency lane as just another driving lane; or as a quick and easy way to skirt around traffic. It is illegal and dangerous to drive in the emergency lane. The only time you are permitted to move your vehicle into an emergency lane is when a real emergency exists. Illegally blocking or driving in emergency lanes can cause major traffic problems and even life threatening situations, especially at crash scenes. N3 Toll Concession (N3TC) appeals to all road users to not drive (or park) in emergency lanes. N3TC manages the N3 Toll Route between Heidelberg in Gauteng and Cedara in KwaZulu-Natal. A recent incident on the N3 Toll Route, where a truck jackknifed and blocked the road near Mooi River, prompted this urgent call. “Traffic came to a complete standstill at the scene where the truck jack-knifed. The problem was made far worse when impatient road users moved into the emergency lanes and prevented emergency vehicles from reaching the scene of the
crash to provide urgent medical assistance, regulate traffic, recover the vehicle, clear the scene and restore normal traffic flow. Emergency teams had to take alternative routes to reach the crash scene, delaying recovery time at the crash,” explains Roux. The National Road Traffic Act clearly prohibits vehicles driving in the emergency lane and/or using the lane to the left of the yellow line as a passing lane. “We are concerned that road users, who act with impunity, may jeopardise road safety, prevent the delivery of urgent medical services and inconvenience thousands of lawabiding road users by extending traffic delays,” says Roux. On the road, a little care goes a long way to help keeping everyone safe. Let’s respect the rules of the road, honour our fellow travellers and allow our emergency services to perform their tasks which they often have to do under strenuous conditions.
Help is available 24/7 on the N3 Toll Route Report problems or get assistance on the N3 Toll Route by contacting the 24-hour N3TC Helpline on 0800 63 4357 (0800 N3 HELP) or by following the N3 Toll Route on Twitter: @N3Route. TAXI MAGAZINE
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INSURANCE TIPS
by: Rajen Govender
10 reasons why your taxi insurance claim could be rejected Every year, thousands of taxi insurance claims are either partly or completely rejected by insurers because of policy exclusions or a breach of conditions. Here are 10 of the most common reasons why insurers could reject your claim.
1. Premiums aren’t up to date One of the main reasons why claims are rejected is because of unpaid premiums. Make sure that payments are made timeously and regularly or you might find yourself without cover.
2. Unlicensed or unspecified drivers Some policies cover the regular driver only so if someone else will be driving your taxi, you need to specify exactly who will be using it. Also, if the taxi is involved in an accident while being driven by an unlicensed driver, the claim will be rejected.
3. Unroadworthy taxi If you have an accident and it turns out that your taxi is not in a roadworthy condition, your claim will be rejected. This could be because of something as simple as broken windscreen wipers or insufficient tread on the tyres.
4. Driving recklessly or under the influence Your insurance policy contains something called the Failure To Take Care clause, which refers to reckless driving. This means that if you were driving recklessly your insurer might refuse to pay out your claim. There is also a Breach Of Road Traffic Regulations clause, so if for example you were speeding at the time of the accident, your claim might also be rejected. It goes without saying that if you are involved in an accident while driving under the influence of alcohol, your claim will not be paid out.
5. No write-off cover Unless write-off cover is clearly stated in your policy, your insurer will not be liable if your taxi is written off in an accident.
6. Telematics indicate driver error Telematic devices are used to track and recover your taxi if it is stolen, but can also be used to monitor your driving. Some insurers insist on the fitment of a telematics device and if it is found, for example, that bad driving or speeding caused an accident, your claim might be rejected. On the bright side, some insurers use telematics to reward good driving.
7. Tracking and security devices not fitted If your insurance cover is conditional upon the fitment of a
satellite tracking device and you fail to comply, your claim will be rejected. The same goes for alarms, immobilisers and gear locks.
8. Vehicle inspection not carried out Most insurers insist that your taxi is inspected on inception of the policy. This is to check for any pre-existing damage to the vehicle. If this inspection is not done, you are in breach of contract and your claim will be rejected.
9. Vehicle used for business Taxis are insured for private use, which includes using it to get to and from work on a daily basis. If, however, you will be using the taxi during the day to perform your business duties, this will have to be disclosed.
10. Vehicle not parked securely at night Insurers want to know where your taxi is parked at night. If you state that your taxi is parked securely in a locked garage at night but it is found that you regularly leave it outside, you will not be paid out if it is stolen or broken into.
Tips to reduce the chances of your claim being rejected. Read the fine print: Make sure that you are familiar with and understand the T's and C's of your policy. This includes items such as the excess, exclusions and whether other drivers are covered. Be honest and upfront: Don’t withhold any information from your insurer. Be honest about who will be driving the taxi and if the taxi will be used for business purposes. Disclose any accidents you have claimed for in the past. Keep your vehicle well maintained: If your taxi is deemed to be unroadworthy in any way your claim will be rejected so keep up to date with services and maintenance. Drive responsibly: Any reckless behaviour that leads to an accident could see your claim being rejected so don’t drink and drive, obey the rules of the road and don’t speed. Stick to your promises: If you stated, for example, that the taxi is kept in a locked garage at night, don’t park it outside.
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KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
Five ways the Consumer Protection Act can help you! You have powerful rights as a consumer – here are some you need to know about.
The Consumer Protection Act (CPA) is there to make sure that South African consumers are treated fairly and responsibly, and to protect us against unscrupulous marketers and suppliers. Knowing your rights, and some of the details of the Act, is essential. Here are five ways it can help you that you probably don't even know about!
Privacy You have the right to the protection of your privacy and of your personal information. You have the right to refuse unwanted or unsolicited direct marketing, including texts, telephone calls, letters or spam e-mail. You also have the right to discontinue receipt of direct marketing at any time. Once you’ve opted out, the supplier may not continue to send unsolicited direct marketing materials.
Top tip You can put your name on a blocking registry to stop telemarketers who are members of the Direct Marketing Association from contacting you. To do this, go to www. nationaloptout.co.za.
Cooling-off periods You are entitled to a five-day “cooling off” period on a purchase that you’ve made in response to direct marketing (ie, it was advertised to you directly, in person, in the mail, or electronically). That means you have five business days in which to change your mind. If you’ve already paid for something, you must notify the company in writing within that five days, and they’ll have 15 days to return your money in full. If you’ve already taken receipt of the goods, you’ll have to return them before you can get your money back.
Contracts You have increased rights regarding contracts. Importantly, the CPA gives you protection from automatic contract renewals. It used to be that consumers who bought gym or cellphone contracts for what they thought were fixed terms,
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found these contracts were automatically renewed. In terms of the CPA, a company wishing to renew your contract must contact you in writing 40 to 80 business days before your contract expires. They are required to give you three options: to continue your contract, to change its terms, or to cancel it. If you fail to respond, your contract will continue on a month-to-month basis until you make your choice. A consumer may cancel a fixed term contract before the agreed expiry date by giving the supplier 20 business days written notice. No reason for the cancellation is required. The company may be able to charge you a reasonable cancellation fee, however.
Deliveries With more and more people ordering goods online, the CPA gives consumers more power. You have the right to check that goods being delivered fit the description of what was advertised. At the time of delivery, you have the right to examine your purchases before accepting them and to reject them if they are not right, and receive a refund. Goods have to be delivered at the agreed date, time and place. If the supplier fails in this regard, you have the right to either accept or cancel the agreement.
Repairs You have the right to receive an estimate of repairs from a company free of charge (unless you agree otherwise). Repairs must cost that amount and no more – again, unless you agree. If more work is required than quoted, the repairer must get the go-ahead from you before continuing.
What to do? If you believe that your consumer rights have been enfringed, contact the Department of Trade and Industry’s National Consumer Commission, previously the Office of Consumer Protection, at 0861 843 384, e-mail contactus@thedti.gov. za or write to: The DTI, National Consumer Commission, Consumer Complaints, Private Bag X84, Pretoria 0001
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LIFESTYLE
Health tips for Taxi drivers Taxi owner Themba Mase has changed his life since his heart attack. He tells Loyiso Ngavu how he feels better than ever.
When Themba Mase had his heart attack at the age of 40, his first thoughts were that he was going to die. But having got back on his feet, he says he was “determined to change my life”. Themba has done just that, by becoming more active, eating healthily, losing weight and cutting back his working hours. Now he says: “I am fitter than I have ever been.” The father-of-four from Durban was at work driving his taxi when he felt a crushing pain in his chest and shooting pains in his arm. Not realising what the problem was, he drove home and told his wife, who called the doctors’ surgery. Staff explained that he needed an ambulance straight away. “When the paramedics told me I was having a heart attack I started panicking,” says Themba. “I thought I was going to die, or that I would never be able to work again.” Once in hospital, Themba had an angioplasty and stent procedure to unblock his coronary artery. Although he felt better physically, he was struggling to deal with the emotional impact of his heart attack. He says: “All I thought about was dying young. I thought ‘I am going to have another one in a couple of weeks’
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‘How long does a stent last?’ All these things were going through my head.”
Unhealthy lifestyle It was cardiac rehabilitation that put Themba’s fears to rest, and made him realise that he needed to change his lifestyle. “Out of my cardiac rehab class of eight people, three of us were taxi owners,” he says. “They told us how a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to your risk of heart disease.” Themba realised that this applied to him – and that there were other unhealthy habits that went along with his job. I love cycling – it is the scenery, the fresh air, getting out and about “I was working long hours, usually about 70 hours a week. I was afraid to stop working for an hour because I thought I might miss out on a rand or two. You are sitting down all day. You often eat on the go – things like pap and meat, just horrible food. And I wasn’t doing any exercise to burn it off. “I used to be a smoker too, although I had stopped on my 40th birthday.”
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Pedal power At the rehab sessions, Themba started physical activity, gradually increasing the amount. By the end, he found he was enjoying it and decided to take up cycling. Before the heart attack, he didn’t even own a bike, but soon Themba became addicted. He says: “I love it! I think it is the scenery, the fresh air, getting out and about. I seem to have more energy afterwards and I feel great.” Themba set a target to do Lap the Lough, a 90-mile bike ride, in August last year – a year after his heart attack. He says: “I built up to it by doing my 10- to 15-mile rides during the week, plus longer rides with my brother at weekends. “Doing the event was great, especially chatting to some of the other people taking part. I was a bit tired afterwards but I felt brilliant, like I had achieved something.” But he didn’t stop there. Themba still cycles four times a week, covering 20 to 25 miles each time. He says: “I used to look at cyclists in Tebogo Malema and think I would never be one of them. Now I have got all the kit and have just sent away for some more – including a BMX cycling top from the online gift shop.”
5 tips for a healthier lifestyle 1. Try to do some physical activity every day, so it becomes part of your routine. Walk or cycle to get to places – whether you’re going to work, the shop, or doing the school run. If you need something to motivate you, why not sign up for a sponsored event?
New outlook Themba, now 42, has changed his diet too. He eats more fish, chicken and vegetables, reads food labels to make healthier choices and buys reduced-salt options. “A lot of people think you’ll be really restricted in what you can eat,” he says, “but there are lots of things you can have. My mother made me a lovely fish pie, and then she taught me how to do it.” He’s lost four stone in weight, and says: “It’s nice to get compliments from people. “I sleep better, and my wife says I don’t snore any more.”
2. Make simple food swaps. Try reduced-fat dairy products instead of full-fat ones. Instead of a packet of crisps or a sausage roll, reach for an apple or banana. 3. If you smoke, stop. It’s the biggest thing you can do to help your health. 4. Cut back on salt. If everyone in the UK cut back by 3g of salt a day, it would prevent 10,000 deaths and a further 10,000 events such as heart attacks and strokes each year. Processed foods are the biggest source of salt in our diets, so read food labels and choose lower-salt options, or make food from scratch instead of buying ready-made versions.
I used to feel bad if I wasn’t working – now I feel bad if I’m not getting out and about outside my taxi. Themba was off work for 17 weeks after his heart attack, and had to go through a fitness test before he could regain his taxi licence. “I was really panicking about it,” he says, “but I got through it no problem. The cardiac rehab nurse gave me a lot of support.” Now back at work, he’s reduced his working hours. “I’ve halved my hours and I’m not any worse off, because I’m spending less on diesel and on garage bills,” he says. “I used to feel bad if I wasn’t working – now I feel bad if I’m not getting out and about outside my taxi. “When I’m working I try to move more. I get out of the taxi and see if people want their bags putting in the boot, or I get out and talk to the other taxi owners.” Themba even tries to spread the word to other owners and encourages them to get health checks. Working less gives him more time to spend with his family, and he’s found the benefits of being fitter here too. “When we went on holiday, my nine-year-old taught me to swim,” he says. “I had never swum before, because I was paranoid about my big belly, but this time I was in the pool with my boys every morning.” Themba Mase all in all, he says: “My heart attack has opened up a whole new life for me. It has made me look after myself. It’s terrible that it took something like that to make me change. “I know there is still a chance that this could happen again, but I am doing everything I can to reduce the
5. Limit alcohol. Regularly exceeding three to four units a day for men (less than two pints of 4 per cent alcohol beer) or two to three units for women (less than one large glass of 13 per cent alcohol wine) can increase your risk of health problems, including damage to your heart and certain cancers. risk. “I feel better than ever". Themba says he’s had a lot of support from his wife. “Taxi magazine is brilliant. I look forward to every issue and read it from cover to cover,” he says. “ I really like the way it explains things simply on healthy living.” If you’ve had a heart attack, you should be offered cardiac rehab within ten days of leaving hospital. Ask your cardiologist or GP if you don’t get offered this. Themba says: “I would say to anyone who’s invited to cardiac rehab, definitely go. It gave me back my confidence.”
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