The south africa minibus taxi industry and its operators: working conditions during covid-19

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has been impacting the global and local communities in many ways. The combat against the COVID-19 pandemic has required a coordinated effort through engaging public and private service providers in preventive measures. This research paper examines the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the daily lives of South African minibus taxi operators who form private service providers. This is because, the South African minibus taxi industry plays a significant role in both rural and urban public transportation networks, employs a huge number of people and moves enormous sums of money that has a direct impact on the economy. Direct stakeholders within the South African minibus taxi industry include: minibus taxi owners, minibus taxi drivers, and minibus taxi marshals. This research paper reviews the preventive measures from lockdown level 5 to 1 taken by the government that have had an impact on the minibus taxi industry. It employed a qualitative research methodology that used interviews as a tool to collect data on the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on stakeholders referred to above. The findings show there were minibus taxis repossessed, loss of wages and employment, a protest, taxi killings, loss of profit sharing, and some minibus taxi owners were forced out of business. Finally, recommendations are made for future research.