Today, 14 October, the City took a further step in demonstrating its commitment towards transforming, empowering and formalising the mini-bus taxi industry by launching the second phase of the Moja Cruise Programme. 

 

Due to the programme’s success, such as its positive impact on commuters and favourable working relations between the industry and the Municipality, the second phase was approved by Council in July for an additional 500 vehicles into the programme. This brings the total number of vehicles to 1000.

 

The programme is in partnership with the eThekwini Metro Taxi Council (EMTC). The main aim of the second phase is centred around passenger safety and an overall safe public transport system.

 

The implementation of phase two sees a more technologically advanced tracking and monitoring system, improved quality branding and robust training programmes for drivers. 

 

The launch was attended by about 300 mini-bus taxi industry stakeholders, including owners, drivers, operators, and the City's political and administrative leadership. 

 

During the event, the new programme elements were showcased while programme champions provided administrative support to existing and new operators. 

 

Operators enrolled in the programme were also informed of the benefits that phase two has to offer and a new non-profit organisation: Public Transport Innovation and Development, that has been tasked with the management of the programme between the City and the EMTC. 

 

Human Settlements and Infrastructure Committe Whip, Councillor Cheryl Sisoka praised stakeholders for the successful implementation of Moja Cruise. "I would like to commend our administration along with EMTC and Public Transport Innovation and Development (PTID) non-profit organisation for finding such  a creative and viable local solution to the nationwide challenge - the transformation of the public transport sector. I also applaud the team for the smooth facilitation of  Moja Cruise." 

 

Moja Cruise taxis adhere to a certain criteria to offer a clean, safe, efficient and customer-oriented service to the public. The vehicles are monitored by use of tracking devices which monitor driver behavior, maps the routes traveled and records each vehicle's kilometres to ensure the criteria is met in order to qualify for the financial incentive. 

 

ENDS

 

For media enquires contact eThekwini Municipality Spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela on 060 9664220.