Limpopo MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Violet Mathye Steps
Limpopo , Polokwane – Limpopo MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Violet Mathye, has stepped in to mediate long-standing disputes threatening the stability of the province’s taxi industry.
Mathye, joined by Head of Department Stephen Matjena, convened a crucial meeting with Kgoshigadi Masemola, the Masemola Taxi Association, as well as representatives from SANTACO, the Limpopo National Taxi Alliance (LNTA), and other local taxi associations.
The talks centred on ongoing tensions in the Lebowakgomo and Zebediela areas, as well as disputes around route operations in Masemola.
The MEC said the meeting was aimed at understanding the root causes of the conflict and finding a way forward that restores peace and stability in the industry.
“The taxi industry plays a crucial role in the province’s economy, and its peaceful operation is essential for the community. The conflicts must stop!” said Mathye.
She urged stakeholders to put aside their differences and embrace open dialogue, stressing that a stable and efficient transport system is vital for both commuters and operators.
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Her intervention forms part of the department’s broader efforts to tackle violence and instability in the taxi sector, which remains the backbone of public transport in Limpopo.
“The department is committed to working with all associations, traditional leaders and communities to find lasting solutions. A stable taxi industry is essential not only for commuters but also for the socio-economic growth of our province,” the department said in a statement.
The department says it hopes to defuse tensions, promote peace, and ensure that public transport in Limpopo operates in a safe and sustainable manner.
Weekend crackdown on drunk and driving
The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety have intensified its fight against drunk driving through the Phuza Weekend Operation, conducted between 17 and 19 September 2025.
The blitz resulted in the arrest of 17 motorists across the province. The department said in the Capricorn District, three motorists were arrested with the highest alcohol reading recorded at 0.93mg/1000ml.
The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety spokesperson, Tidimalo Chuene said Mopani District accounted for two arrests, the highest reading being 0.30mg/1000ml.
Chuene said Vhembe District registered the highest number of arrests, with eight drivers taken off the road.
“The most severe case recorded was 0.60mg/1000ml. Waterberg District recorded four arrests, with the highest reading at 0.88mg/1000ml. Sekhukhune District reported no incidents of drunk driving during this period.
“These arrests highlight the Department’s unwavering commitment to road safety and its zero-tolerance stance against lawlessness. Motorists are reminded to never drink and drive. The decisions you make behind the wheel determine whether lives are saved or lost,” she said.
Focuse on Scholar Transport Compliance
The Public Transport Unit in Capricorn District has intensified efforts to keep roads safe, targeting illegal and unsafe scholar transport operations.
In a recent operation in Polokwane, authorities issued summonses to 17 drivers operating scholar transport vehicles without the necessary permits. Additionally, four overloaded vehicles were cited for exceeding passenger limits.
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The crackdown comes as part of a broader initiative to ensure the safety of learners traveling to and from school. Officials warned that non-compliant vehicles pose serious risks, including accidents, injuries, and potential fatalities.
“Scholar transport vehicles must be compliant to protect our children. Every learner deserves a safe journey to school,” said a spokesperson for the Public Transport Unit.
Authorities urge drivers to adhere strictly to transport regulations and call on the community to report unsafe vehicles, reinforcing collective responsibility for road safety in the district.