SANTACO is the national representative body of the taxi industry in South Africa. Established in 2001, we are committed to:
We are building a future where the taxi industry is a cornerstone of public transport and a beacon of economic empowerment.
SANTACO’s mission is rooted in transforming the taxi industry into a reliable, efficient, and formalised component of South Africa’s mobility network. By prioritising safety, modernisation, and economic empowerment, SANTACO seeks to uplift its members and provide commuters with high-quality transport services. Through strategic partnerships, innovation, and advocacy for fair subsidies, the organisation aims to build a sustainable industry that serves operators, commuters, and the broader economy.
The mission reads as follows:
To drive the transformation of public transport through safe, reliable, and innovative mobility and logistics solutions, while promoting economic empowerment and a diversified, sustainable, subsidized industry that serves all stakeholders.
SANTACO sees itself as the engine of change for the taxi industry. This involves advocacy for policy changes, internal reforms (like training and compliance), and spearheading development projects (such as fleet renewal programs or station upgrades).
Echoing the vision, the mission emphasises sustainability (likely economic and operational) and empowerment (both of the industry’s position in transport, and of the individuals within the industry through skills and economic opportunities).
The mission underlines that the taxi industry under SANTACO’s guidance should not remain mono-dimensional. It should expand its footprint into related domains of transportation (for example, feeder services to rail, participation in Bus Rapid Transit operations, or providing last-mile connectivity solutions). It also implies that the industry should harness new business models and partnerships, which could involve participating in infrastructure projects, technology platforms, value chain, and so on.
SANTACO’s values serve as the foundation of its identity, guiding its actions, decisions, and relationships across the public transport sector. These values reflect our commitment to professionalism, safety, empowerment, inclusive representation, and broader economic participation. They define not only what we stand for, but also how we operate — ensuring that our members, partners, and commuters experience a transport industry that is principled, progressive, and people-centred.
Each value is supported by practical actions and a shared culture that drives our mission forward:
We are committed to enhancing economic opportunities for our members and employees across the transport value chain.
We uphold the highest standards of organisation, accountability, and professional conduct within the taxi industry.
We are dedicated to ensuring safe, reliable, and secure transport for all commuters and operators.
We are committed to expanding the taxi industry’s role and presence in the broader economy through active participation.
We advocate for our members’ interests with integrity, ensuring every voice is heard and our mission upheld.
