The South African Metered Taxi Forum (SAMTAF) will bring together key players from South Africa’s meter taxi and e-hailing industry
National SAMTAF conference to tackle regulation, safety, professionalisation and the future of passenger transport
GAUTENG — The South African Metered Taxi Forum (SAMTAF) will bring together key players from South Africa’s meter taxi and e-hailing industry, government, regulators and the broader transport sector at the South African Meter Taxi, E-Hailing and Operators Conference 2026, taking place on 16 September 2026 in Gauteng.
Held under the theme “Professionalisation and Coordination in the Meter Taxi and E-Hailing Industry,” the conference aims to create a platform for meaningful dialogue and practical solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing the passenger transport sector.
The one-day gathering will bring together meter taxi operators, e-hailing operators, transport associations, fleet owners, government representatives, municipalities, regulators, industry experts and private-sector stakeholders.
AN INDUSTRY AT A TURNING POINT
The passenger transport industry is undergoing significant change, driven by the rapid growth of e-hailing, advances in technology and evolving regulatory requirements.
While these developments have created new opportunities, they have also raised important questions around regulation, safety, compliance, fair competition and the relationship between operators and authorities.
Oupa Magano, representing SAMTAF, said the conference is an opportunity for the industry to address these issues collectively. “The industry has reached a point where we can no longer afford to operate in silos. We need meaningful engagement between operators, government, regulators and other stakeholders if we are to build a passenger transport sector that works for everyone.”»
FOCUSING ON PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS
The conference will focus on finding practical and sustainable solutions to challenges affecting operators and passengers.
Key areas of discussion will include:
– Regulation and compliance — strengthening the regulatory environment for operators;
– Safety and security — improving the safety of drivers and passengers;
– Professionalisation — promoting higher standards and responsible operations;
– Fair competition — addressing challenges within the changing passenger transport market;
– Government and industry coordination — strengthening engagement between operators, municipalities, regulators and government;
– Technology and innovation — exploring how technology can improve passenger transport services;
– Skills development — supporting the development and professional growth of drivers and operators; and
– Partnerships and investment — creating opportunities for collaboration across the public and private sectors.
PUTTING OPERATORS AT THE CENTRE OF THE CONVERSATION
Oupa Magano said it is important that the voices of operators are included in discussions about policies and regulations affecting the industry.
«“Operators understand the realities of the industry because they are on the roads every day. Their experiences, challenges and recommendations must form part of the discussions that shape the future of passenger transport.”»
He added that stronger cooperation between industry and government is essential to creating an environment where operators can comply with regulations while continuing to provide reliable services to passengers.
SAFETY AND PROFESSIONALISM
Passenger safety and professional standards will be among the key priorities at the conference.
The discussions will examine how operators, government and other stakeholders can work together to promote responsible operations, improve compliance and strengthen public confidence in meter taxi and e-hailing services.
“Professionalisation is not simply about compliance. It is about building an industry that passengers can trust and one that operators can be proud to be part of,” said Magano.
SHAPING THE FUTURE
The conference will also provide an opportunity for networking, knowledge-sharing and the development of partnerships that can contribute to the long-term growth of the sector.
Oupa Magano said the conference should be viewed as an important starting point for continued engagement beyond the event.
«“Our objective is not to have another conference where people speak, take notes and go home. We want to create meaningful engagement, identify areas where we can work together and establish a stronger foundation for the future of the industry.”»
SAMTAF is calling on meter taxi operators, e-hailing operators, transport associations, fleet owners, government institutions, municipalities, regulators, private-sector companies and other stakeholders to participate in this important national conversation.
CONFERENCE DETAILS
Event: South African Meter Taxi, E-Hailing and Operators Conference 2026
Theme: Professionalisation and Coordination in the Meter Taxi and E-Hailing Industry
Date: 16 September 2026
Province: Gold Reef City, Gauteng
Hosted by: South African Metered Taxi Forum (SAMTAF)
