Cape Taxi Rivals CATA and CODETA Pledge Calm as Mediation Process Begins

Breakthrough After Hours of Mediation

The breakthrough was achieved after hours of intense behind-the-scenes negotiation on Monday. Both associations, long-time competitors in the region’s minibus taxi industry, sat down with representatives from the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco), the Western Cape Department of Mobility, and the City of Cape Town to tackle the escalating tensions.

The mediation session spanned almost the entire day but ultimately concluded with both parties agreeing to a roadmap for peace and renewed dialogue.

Commitment to End Violence

Recent weeks have seen a surge in taxi-related violence in the area, leading to service disruptions, threats to commuter safety, and the tragic loss of lives. Santaco, issuing a statement after the meeting, announced that both CATA and CODETA have formally pledged to end the violence and engage in an independently facilitated process to address the disputes’ root causes.

The process is set to begin immediately, with parties moving into discussions this week to identify the primary concerns behind the rivalry. These talks are intended to prepare the associations for a follow-up meeting with government authorities scheduled for Tuesday, 10 November 2026.

Industry Reaction and Next Steps

Santaco Western Cape Chairperson, Besuthu Ndungane, welcomed the progress but emphasised the importance of full commitment from all involved. “This engagement is an important step towards restoring peace and stability in our industry. However, commitments alone are not enough. We call on all parties to honour their word and ensure that no more lives are lost over disputes that can be resolved through dialogue,” Ndungane stated.

The taxi council reaffirmed its dedication to observing the process and participating alongside the associations, helping to ensure that promises translate into practical, sustained actions on the ground.

Restoring Public Confidence

The conflict between CATA and CODETA has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among daily commuters and communities reliant on minibus taxis for transport. Santaco acknowledged the strain these disruptions have placed on the public and assured residents of ongoing collaborative efforts to restore service stability.

The council also urged commuters to rely on official communication channels for updates regarding taxi operations and changes to affected routes, underlining the need to avoid misinformation during sensitive periods.

Dialogue, Cooperation, and Accountability

Santaco reiterated its stance that violence has no place in the industry and encouraged all parties to focus on dialogue, cooperation, and accountability as the only path towards lasting peace. The ongoing mediation, observed by Santaco and supported by government, aims to carve out long-term solutions to prevent further conflict and keep commuters safe.

This mediation process reflects a broader effort within the taxi industry to prioritize collective problem-solving over confrontation, ensuring that essential public transport services can continue safely.

Looking Forward

The next week will be critical as CATA, CODETA, and all stakeholders move on to substantive discussions. While the peace agreement marks a hopeful turning point, the true test will be in upholding pledges made behind closed doors and building sustained trust among both associations and the communities they serve.

Restoration of stability within the Western Cape’s taxi sector will depend on the willingness of all involved to maintain the momentum of peace and implement lasting solutions.