Niël Terblanché
The growing number of illegal taxis in Namibia has raised significant concerns among authorities, prompting the Ministry of Works and Transport to collaborate with stakeholders on improving the taxi registration system.
The initiative aims to address the root causes of illegal taxi operations and streamline the process of obtaining permits.
The ministry’s Deputy Director of Transportation Regulation, Damien Mabengano, pointed out that the complexity of the current system contributes to the rise of illegal taxis.
“When the system is complex, people will not go through the proper channels. They will try to bypass the system and drive the taxi without a permit,” Mabengano said.
He reiterated the need to simplify the process to ensure that applicants can easily comply and obtain their licenses legally.
Illegal taxis not only evade regulations but also pose serious risks to public safety.
Unlicensed operators often lack proper insurance and are not subject to the same safety standards as registered taxis.
This has led to incidents of robbery, assault, and accidents involving unlicensed drivers, further exacerbating the problem.
Efforts to combat illegal taxis include increased inspections and enforcement actions by the Namibia Police and Windhoek City Police.
These measures involve impounding vehicles operating without permits and imposing fines on unlicensed drivers.
Authorities have also urged the public to report illegal taxi operators to help curb the issue.
Mabengano said that while the ministry goes ahead with plans to streamline the taxi registration system, it is crucial for all stakeholders, including taxi drivers and the public, to support these efforts.
He added that simplifying the process for obtaining taxi permits and increasing public awareness about the dangers of using unlicensed taxis will help ensure safer and more reliable transportation services in Namibia.
