Taxi operators have warned that they may return their operating licences and switch to e-hailing services if government moves ahead with plans to introduce regulations perceived as favouring digital transport platforms
SESUPO RANTSIMAKO
Taxi operators have threatened to surrender their operating permits and migrate to the e-hailing business if government proceeds with plans to protect technology-based transport platforms, arguing that the traditional taxi industry is being sidelined despite its contribution to the economy.
GOV’T STANCE SPARKS BACKLASH
The warning was issued by Botswana Taxi Association chairman Balopi Lekgowe following remarks by the Minister of Labour and Home Affairs Pius Mokgware that government has resolved to protect businesses that rely on technology platforms.
Speaking to The Botswana Gazette, Lekgowe said the government’s position has alarmed taxi operators who believe authorities are prioritizing e-hailing services at the expense of a heavily regulated taxi industry.
“If government proceeds with this proposal, taxi operators will have no choice but to return their permits and join the e-hailing business because it is easier to operate,” he said.
Minister Mokgware said e-hailing services are here to stay and cannot be wished away.
FEELING NEGLECTED
Lekgowe accused government of failing to take the taxi industry seriously despite its contribution to public revenue through licensing fees, service levies and other regulatory charges.
“We pay levies and other charges to government, yet it appears government is more interested in protecting e-hailing operators who do not make similar contributions,” he said.
He argued that e-hailing operators enjoy competitive advantages while traditional taxi operators continue to shoulder extensive regulatory obligations.
NO CONSULTATION
Lekgowe said taxi operators were surprised by government’s position because they were not consulted before the announcement was made.
He said the association has repeatedly sought engagement with government on the growing influence of e-hailing services and the need for a level playing field within the public transport sector.
He added that “the association met the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Noah Salakae last year to discuss challenges facing the taxi industry and regulation of e-hailing services, but is still awaiting feedback.”
SALAKAE URGES ADAPTATION
Reached for comment, Salakae said government intends to regulate all sectors of the economy, but regulation of e-hailing services will not be rushed.
“We have to conduct due diligence and ensure that all stakeholders are taken into confidence before any decision is made,” he said.
He urged taxi operators to embrace digital platforms, saying global transport systems are increasingly technology-driven.
“The world is moving in that direction and customers have already embraced these platforms,” Salakae added.
Taxi operators argue that current regulatory requirements place them at a disadvantage compared to e-hailing operators, setting the stage for further confrontation over the future of Botswana’s public transport sector.