All systems go for Easter holidays as Free State taxi industry commits to safer roads

Central SA

─── KEKELETSO MOSEBETSI 10:38 Wed, 01 Apr 2026

The taxi industry is prepared for the Easter holidays. Photo: Clement Matroos

The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) in the Free State has assured commuters it is fully prepared to ensure safety on the roads during the busy Easter holiday period.

The association was among key stakeholders participating in the province’s Easter road safety campaign prayer session at Botshabelo Stadium on Tuesday (31/3). The initiative forms part of the Free State provincial government’s broader efforts to promote responsible road user behaviour and reduce car accidents during the Easter period.

The campaign launch, led by Free State community safety and roads MEC Jabu Mbalula, brought together various safety stakeholders to reinforce the message of safer roads for all. The Easter weekend traditionally sees a surge in traffic volumes across the country, increasing the risk of accidents.

‘We are here to take part and pledge our commitment
to the safety of commuters on the roads’

The initiative also highlighted law enforcement readiness, public awareness campaigns, and the responsibility of all road users to ensure safe travel.

“As Santaco, we attended this event to show that we really care about commuters who will be moving within the province and to other destinations outside the borders of the Free State. We are here to take part and pledge our commitment to the safety of commuters on the roads because we are the largest entity responsible for driving passengers. I can assure commuters that Santaco Free State is ready to ferry passengers safely and in a friendly manner during this Easter holiday,” said Joe Matlatsa, Free State Santaco general secretary.

Matlatsa added taxi operators had attended workshops where vehicle roadworthiness was emphasised, alongside the importance of valid permits and improved driver behaviour. Authorities have also indicated that roadblocks will be strategically deployed across the province to enforce compliance.

“The core function of our work is to reduce accidents, enhance awareness and law enforcement, and keep people safe in the province,” said Lehana Leeto, Free State chief director of traffic.

Leeto warned that drinking and driving, hijacking, illegal overtaking, and non-compliance by public transport vehicles will not be tolerated.

“I want to make it very clear, passengers, motorists, and pedestrians, your life is in your hands, road safety begins with you. One death is one too many for us, and we are going to make sure the Free State is safe. I want to confirm to you that the reduction of road accidents in 2024 and 2025 was because of changes in the attitude of our people.”