The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) is proud to welcome a brand-new union into the fold of the progressive trade union movement. The South African Taxi Drivers Workers Union (SATDWU) officially registered with the Registrar of Labour Relations on 3 November.

Having guided and assisted the emerging union through the registration process for nearly a year, COSATU is pleased SATDWU is now free to focus on securing and advancing the rights of the workers within its sector.

Around 15 million South Africans rely on taxis for their daily commute to work, school and recreation. Despite the critical role they play in the country’s transport system, taxi drivers are among the most exploited and vulnerable workers in South Africa. They work incredibly long hours; get up at the crack of dawn to ensure the early risers are transported to work on time; they are also the last to get to bed having ensured that those who work the last shift, like restaurant workers, get home safely.

Added to that are the impossible daily revenue targets employers set for them. Without condoning drivers who violate traffic laws, their exploitative working conditions place many in a very difficult choice as they seek to earn enough money daily to meet their payments to the taxi owners and still have money left over to take care of themselves and their families.

Of particular concern, is the violence that has been a constant feature of the industry. Due to this, taxi drivers risk their lives each time they get behind the wheel. They are also responsible for the lives of their passengers. All these factors culminate in higher-than-normal levels of stress.  Tragically, taxi and bus passengers, bus drivers, traffic officers and other members of society too are often exposed to such violence.

It is these issues and more that SATDWU will have to take up to ensure taxi drivers’ conditions of work are improved. Enforcement of the National Minimum Wage and registration with the Unemployment Insurance and Compensation Funds as well as compliance with all our labour laws are also some of the issues SATDWU would have to follow up on. COSATU will continue to work closely with SATDWU to achieve this.

The Federation wishes SATDWU great success as it embarks on this all-important endeavour to ensure taxi drivers rights are respected and protected. The Federation pledges its support in every way possible.