Learners from Sophumelela Secondary School in Samora Machel were elated to receive sanitary towels and toiletries donated by members of the Nyanga-based women’s branch of the Khikhi-Murray Minibus/Avanza Taxi Association on Wednesday 5 August. Only Grade 8 learners participated in the initiative. The girls received sanitary towels while the boys were given toiletries.
Taxi women donate to Grade 8 learners
Khikhi-Murray is a Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (Cata) affiliate, governing local taxis (also known as amaphela) operating between Gugulethu, Nyanga, Philippi, Crossroads and Lower Crossroads. Speaking on the women’s branch’s behalf, Lakheni Nombila described the a project spearheaded by the women as a special way of giving back to the community.
“We are here to give hope to the children,” she said. “We are planting a seed that, one day, will blossom. We are here to support and motivate them. People know us for doing wrong things, but today we want to show our positive side as amaphela.” Nombila said, most of the women involved in the taxi industry are there because their husbands had died while working in the industry.
She said to be in the industry, one needs to have a thick skin. “We are in an industry that is male-dominated. We build our homes with the money we get from amaphela. We raise our children and send them to school with this little money that people pay in our taxis.” For this reason, and because the resources that make life possible for them are hard-won, Nombila urged learners to be strong and focus on their studies.
Learner calls for safer taxis
Sophumelela learner Khazimla Biyana expressed her gratitude to the taxi women. She said their contribution was appreciated. However it was also an opportunity for a young learner to express a sobering warning to an often controversial industry. She urged the taxi owners to take responsibility for their vehicles and whatever happens in them.
“We appeal to you to stop hiring young drivers under 18 years old, because they rob and kidnap us. We are requesting the taxi owners to protect us. They must fire the drivers who are misbehaving on the road.”
Teacher praises taxi women’s effort
A teacher at the school, Sivuyile Ndamane, thanked the women in the taxi industry for their efforts and for showing love to the children. He described what they did for the school as a great initiative.
“It goes some way towards changing the perception people have about the taxi industry. By thinking of the learners, they show they are dedicated parents who take responsibility. And I appeal to the drivers to drive responsibly.”
