03 Mar 2026

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure is currently reviewing the Road Transport Permit Act to incorporate ride-hailing services like Yango and InDrive into the national regulatory framework. 

Assistant Minister Mr Keoagile Atamelang informed Parliament in response to a question on Monday that while the current Act was silent on such digital platforms, the ministry was working to ensure that they operated under the same framework as local transport operators.

 Addressing grievances from Taxi and Combi Associations regarding high and increasing costs, the assistant minister indicated that a consultation process was ongoing to address their concerns. 

He explained that the current charges were classified as cost-recovery fees rather than profit-driven taxes. 

He noted that the last official review of service fees was conducted in September 2021, adding ‘despite limited resources, the ministry remains committed to providing timely service to the customer.’ 

To tackle delays in issuing temporary permits, the assistant minister highlighted that permits were intended to be issued over the counter and he acknowledged that obsolete IT infrastructure had hindered efficiency. 

He further explained that permit processing was currently restricted to specific officers with delegated powers of the controller to maintain strict accountability and system security. 

Again, he told Parliament that the ministry was also intensifying its crackdown on illegal transport operations, including conducting regular operations to target piracy and school buses operating without valid permits. 

Under the Road Traffic Act, he said any vehicle alterations, including tinting, required written permission from the director while for public transport, tinting must remain light enough to ensure visibility and safety of both drivers and passengers.

 “Plans are underway to increase public education regarding the general safety of passenger service vehicles,” he said. 

Member of Parliament for Mmopane-Metsimotlhabe, Ms Helen Manyeneng had asked why permit processing was often delayed or restricted to single officials in certain offices. 

Ms Manyeneng also raised concerns about the legal status of loaders at bus ranks and asked for a clear framework to level the playing field between local operators and international ride-hailing apps. ENDS