SANTACO Western Cape has announced the launch of a groundbreaking road safety initiative to protect the millions of South Africans who will rely on minibus taxis for their holiday travels this festive season at Joe Gqabi in Phillipi East on December 13, from 10am to 12pm.

The campaign, titled "Your Safety, Our Priority", aims to address the heightened risk of road accidents during the busy travel period by promoting safer driving practices, ensuring vehicle roadworthiness, and fostering collaboration between taxi operators, passengers, and law enforcement agencies.

The campaign is set to focus on several key areas, including driver safety awareness, roadside inspections, passenger education, and law enforcement partnerships. Drivers will be encouraged to adhere to traffic laws, practice responsible driving, and manage fatigue.

Increased vehicle inspections will ensure that taxis meet safety standards, while public education initiatives will empower passengers to speak up against reckless driving, take note of vehicle details, and report any unsafe behavior. Law enforcement officers will also monitor key taxi routes to enforce compliance with road safety regulations.

"The festive season ushers in a period of joy and celebration, but it also comes with an increased risk of road accidents due to higher traffic volumes and long-distance travel," said the regional chairperson of SANTACO Western Cape, Mandla Hermanus.

"This campaign seeks to prioritise safety to ensure everyone reaches their destinations safely."

The initiative emphasises the crucial role of the minibus taxi industry in transporting millions of South Africans and highlights the collective responsibility to ensure safer travel during this busy season.

SANTACO Western Cape has called on drivers, operators, and associations to actively participate in the campaign to make a tangible difference.

“We urge all Stakeholders in the minibus taxi industry, including drivers, operators, and associations to participate on the campaign,” said Hermanus.

The public and members of the media are also encouraged to attend.

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SANTACO Western Cape launches road safety campaign ahead of festive season