EASTERN CAPE MEC FOR TRANSPORT COMMITS IN BUILDING A BUS AND TAXI RANK AT KWABACA

The Eastern Cape Department of transport has made a commitment to the taxi drivers and Umzimvubu Municipality to build the long anticipated taxi rank in Mount Frere  in 2025.

This commitment was put forward by Eastern Cape MEC for Transport and Community Safety Xolile Nqatha during  a meeting with taxi drivers on Friday the 08 of March 2024.

In light of the recent taxi driver strike, the MEC requested the community’s patience. He explained to them that certain protocols and financial constraints had caused delays in the project, and assured everyone that they are working diligently to kickstart the project as of 1st of April 2025 financial year.

Ndumiso Honono, the Chairperson of the taxi rank Association, expressed frustration over the government’s reluctance to build the taxi rank, “ The government was not willing to  build this taxi rank.” After a 15-year wait, the community was finally promised the much-needed project.

Honono emphasised the significance of this pledge, stating that it has renewed their hope for the future. Especially after the  MEC has  assured them  that the project would not be abandoned even in his absence.

The meeting concluded on a high note, with Umzimvubu Local Municipality Mayor, Cllr Zukiswa Ndevu, expressing satisfaction with the outcome. She described it as the most successful meeting to date with the Department of Transport and other stakeholders, with all parties leaving feeling content.

Mayor Ndevu also noted her appreciation for the MEC’s clear statement that there are no funds available to proceed with the project in the current financial year.

Apologies were extended to those impacted by the road block resulting from the community’s efforts to voice their concerns.