Members of the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (Codeta) converged on Mew Way Hall in Khayelitsha for a prayer service for peace on Tuesday 28 October.
Presided over by leaders of various churches it was attended by other taxi associations as well, including Uncedo of the Eastern Cape.
The aim was to commit all challenges encountered by taxi associations over the past year to prayer and supplication, and to appeal prayerfully for peace.
Codeta spokesperson Makhosandile Tumana said the special prayer service was mainly for peace and unity in the taxi industry.
“As you know, we are approaching the festive season and many people are going on holiday in different places. Our drivers will be driving long distances. We are here to pray for the safety of their journeys. We want road accidents to stop.” He said the taxis were ready to take to the road and their drivers fit for the journeys.
Tumana advised the drivers to take enough rest before a long trip, and there was no need to force themselves to drive if they are tired.
“It is important for the driver not to put himself under pressure, because we learned some of the road accidents were caused by the fatigue. We want our commuters to arrive alive. I can declare to them we will treat them with respect.” He added that commuters must direct their complaints to the taxi rank.
Bishop Derek Mtsolo of The Ilitha Methodist Church of Southern Africa described the service as a great initiative, and urged unity among the taxi associations.
“We are appealing to God to be with the taxi drivers. We want God to be with them all the time. We don’t want to hear of any accidents. We want people to arrive at their destinations alive and safe. We are saying enough is enough.” Mtsolo said he was also eager to see more peace and harmony taking root in the taxi industry.
He urged God to be with the widows and orphans who had lost their fathers and spouses in taxi-related violence.
