Latest news with #CATA
IOL News
17-07-2025
- IOL News
Taxi driver accused with stabbing a motorist makes court appearance
THE taxi driver who was filmed stabbing a motorist with an Okapi knife in a viral video made his first appearance at the Cape Town Magistrates Court yesterday. Mthuthuzeli Sikhweza, 28, from Philippi handed himself over to police on Monday after returning from the Eastern Cape. He appeared on two charges of attempted murder and reckless and negligent driving, however, the matter was postponed to July 25 for a formal bail application. Footage of the violent attack which occurred on June 26 at the intersection of Canon and Voortrekker Road in Maitland went viral last week and shows Mthuthuzeli, who is associated with the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) and driving the Gugulethu-Maitland route, appeared to have stabbed 28-year-old Zain Pandey multiple times.
Yahoo
25-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
More than 80 Chicagoland New-Car Dealers Rally Together for Drive for the Troops Fundraiser this July
Chicago Automobile Trade Association and USO Partner for 12th Year CHICAGO, June 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Chicagoland's new-car dealers are once again on a summertime mission to raise awareness and funds for local military and their families through the 12th annual Drive for the Troops fundraiser. Throughout the entire month of July, more than 80 dealerships across the area will join in hosting online fundraisers and onsite events at their dealerships to benefit the USO. Since the program's inception, Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) dealers have rallied to raise more than $1.2 million to support USO programs and services. "Rallying behind our local service members and their families is something that continues to unite our communities, and the USO remains an essential partner in that mission," said Ryan Kelly, Chicago Automobile Trade Association chairman. "Our local new-car dealers have shown time and again that they're not just in the business of selling cars—they're committed community leaders. The collective impact of this decade-long fundraiser has been remarkable, and we're thankful to everyone who continues to help drive its success." Kelly continued, "If you are looking for a way to give back this summer, we invite you to join in the fundraising efforts with your local new-car dealer by stopping by one of the many events taking place or making an online donation to the cause." "The continued support from hometown communities and local new-car dealerships has enabled the USO to make a meaningful impact on the lives of more than 300,000 service members and their families each year," said Christopher Schmidt, Executive Director at the USO. "Thanks to hundreds of programs, services, and our USO Centers across Illinois, we're able to stay connected with those who serve. Events like Drive for the Troops are a powerful example of neighbors coming together to support one another, and attending your local dealership's fundraiser this July or donating online is a fantastic way to get involved." "On behalf of the USO and the military service members we proudly support, we extend our sincere thanks to all participating dealers and the generous communities behind them," Schmidt added. Fundraising will be active online throughout the entire month of July. Those interested can make a donation online at To find the full listing of participating CATA dealers and local fundraising events, visit For more information about the USO, visit About the Chicago Automobile Trade AssociationFounded in 1904, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association is one of the nation's largest metropolitan dealer organizations. It is comprised of more than 420 franchised new-car dealers and an additional 150 allied members. The group's dealer members employ about 19,000 people in the metropolitan area. The association has produced the world-famous Chicago Auto Show since 1935. For more information please visit About USOThe USO is the leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the well-being of the people serving in America's military and their families. Since 1941, the USO has been by the side of service members throughout their military service. Impactful support is provided through our 250+ locations around the world, a robust care package delivery program, global entertainment, military spouse and youth programming, and much more, all made possible by donors, corporate partners, volunteers and staff. To learn more and support our critical mission around the globe, please visit or follow us on Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram and LinkedIn. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Chicago Automobile Trade Association Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
IOL News
25-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
CATA and CODETA's historic peace agreement enhances commuter safety in Western Cape
Cata and Codeta have reconciled after a feud over routes. . Image: Armand Hough/Independent Newspapers Two of the Western Cape's largest taxi associations have formally reconciled after a period of conflict over key transport routes, reaching an agreement aimed at restoring order and ensuring the safety of commuters. The Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) and the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA) announced in a joint statement that they had resolved their dispute and committed to maintaining stability in the minibus taxi industry. The breakthrough follows a dialogue held on 24 June 2025, where representatives from both associations signed off on operational resolutions for the contested Mfuleni–Somerset and Khayelitsha–Somerset routes. As a result of the conflict, seven people were killed and five others were injured in taxi-related incidents. Under the agreement, operators from Mfuleni will retain their right to return passengers from Somerset as stipulated in their operating licences. This affirms that the Mfuleni–Somerset route will not operate on a gap-gap system, and that return trips are formally recognised. For the Khayelitsha–Somerset route, the parties agreed to an interim three-month gap-gap system. During this period, the route will be served by a total of 30 minibus taxis –15 from each association – with the fare set at R30. The arrangement will be reviewed after the trial phase. In a joint statement, CATA and CODETA said: 'This agreement reflects a mutual commitment to structured collaboration, safe operations, and the sustained improvement of the public transport system. All parties remain dedicated to constructive engagement in resolving issues and promoting a safe, dignified transport experience for all.' The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) Western Cape said the agreement marked a successful outcome following a series of problem-solving engagements. 'Considering the recent conflicts CATA and CODETA have faced regarding route operations, the associations have since reached and signed a formal agreement,' Santaco said. 'This agreement reflects cooperation between CATA and CODETA in fostering a peaceful, safe and reliable public transport industry within the province.' The industry also issued an1 apology to commuters for any inconvenience experienced during the period of tension and unrest. The Western Cape Government welcomed the agreement, describing it as a positive and necessary step for public safety and operational stability. 'At the core of this agreement lies the pressing need for a safe, reliable, and properly functioning public transport system, one that prioritises the interests of commuters,' the province said in a statement. Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku commended all involved parties for putting commuters first.
IOL News
09-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Transport minister raises concerns over lack of formalisation in taxi Industry
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has expressed serious concern over the government's ongoing failure to formalise South Africa's taxi industry Image: Armand Hough/Independent Newspapers Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has expressed serious concern over the government's ongoing failure to formalise South Africa's taxi industry and align it with what she called "normal competitive business practices". 'I am very concerned that we do seem to be failing to formalise the taxi industry and to ensure that this industry operates with what one could call normal competitive business practices,' Creecy said in interview broadcaster Newzroom Afrika.. She noted that this issue has been central in her discussions with national taxi associations, and affirmed that it remains a top priority in the government's engagement with the sector. 'It's my belief that we can't continue this way. It brings the industry into disrepute, and it poses a danger to commuters,' she added. Her comments come amid escalating concerns about violence in the taxi sector. Last week, four people were killed at the Emfuleni taxi rank in the Western Cape, when armed men opened fire. According to reports police believe the shooting may have been triggered by a dispute between the taxi associations CATA and CODETA, who are reportedly in conflict over control of a taxi route linking Mfuleni and Somerset West. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Responding to the Minister's comments, South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) national spokesperson Mmatshikhidi Rebecca Phala acknowledged the slow pace of reform. "The Minister's concern is our concern, the pace at which efforts to formalise the taxi industry are going is concerning, since the 2020 National Taxi Lekgotla during which we resolved to professionalize the industry through collaboration, processes have been moving at a pace slower than we would have hoped for," Phala said. "However, not all hope is lost. We are hard at work with our road safety initiatives, use of security services for our ranks, driver and marshal training, introduction of automated fare collection systems and the restoration of other commuter safety initiatives. We draw inspiration in hearing the Minister continue to highlight the work that has to be undertaken alongside the department and other agencies and private partners". Creecy emphasised the crucial role of the taxi industry, which she said transports nearly 80% of the country's commuters and is 100% black-owned. 'We really need to move from the current situation,' she urged, calling for deeper structural reform, better oversight, and collaborative problem-solving across all levels of government and industry. According to Phala, changes are underway within the industry. "All taxi associations are now moving from the operation of sole proprietor taxi businesses to the formation of cooperatives which will employ drivers and other workforces of the industry into employees who will receive salaries and other work benefits in alignment with the Basic Conditions Of Employment. Operators are becoming directors of taxi businesses though cooperatives to ensure tax compliance and other levy contributions," she said. On the issue of violence, Phala said the industry was working with all law enforcement. "To address ongoing violence, we have collaborative efforts with law enforcement agencies to combat crimes. Equally, because we understand that turf wars are linked to the competitive nature of the transport sector, we are introducing other value chain opportunities like sale of lubricants and fuel, sale of vehicle parts and other businesses for operators to leverage multiple business opportunities and not focus on one opportunity". IOL Business
IOL News
09-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Transport minister raises concerns over lack of formalisation in taxi Industry
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has expressed serious concern over the government's ongoing failure to formalise South Africa's taxi industry Image: Armand Hough/Independent Newspapers Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has expressed serious concern over the government's ongoing failure to formalise South Africa's taxi industry and align it with what she called "normal competitive business practices". 'I am very concerned that we do seem to be failing to formalise the taxi industry and to ensure that this industry operates with what one could call normal competitive business practices,' Creecy said in interview broadcaster Newzroom Afrika.. She noted that this issue has been central in her discussions with national taxi associations, and affirmed that it remains a top priority in the government's engagement with the sector. 'It's my belief that we can't continue this way. It brings the industry into disrepute, and it poses a danger to commuters,' she added. Her comments come amid escalating concerns about violence in the taxi sector. Last week, four people were killed at the Emfuleni taxi rank in the Western Cape, when armed men opened fire. According to reports police believe the shooting may have been triggered by a dispute between the taxi associations CATA and CODETA, who are reportedly in conflict over control of a taxi route linking Mfuleni and Somerset West. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Responding to the Minister's comments, South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) national spokesperson Mmatshikhidi Rebecca Phala acknowledged the slow pace of reform. "The Minister's concern is our concern, the pace at which efforts to formalise the taxi industry are going is concerning, since the 2020 National Taxi Lekgotla during which we resolved to professionalize the industry through collaboration, processes have been moving at a pace slower than we would have hoped for," Phala said. "However, not all hope is lost. We are hard at work with our road safety initiatives, use of security services for our ranks, driver and marshal training, introduction of automated fare collection systems and the restoration of other commuter safety initiatives. We draw inspiration in hearing the Minister continue to highlight the work that has to be undertaken alongside the department and other agencies and private partners". Creecy emphasised the crucial role of the taxi industry, which she said transports nearly 80% of the country's commuters and is 100% black-owned. 'We really need to move from the current situation,' she urged, calling for deeper structural reform, better oversight, and collaborative problem-solving across all levels of government and industry. According to Phala, changes are underway within the industry. "All taxi associations are now moving from the operation of sole proprietor taxi businesses to the formation of cooperatives which will employ drivers and other workforces of the industry into employees who will receive salaries and other work benefits in alignment with the Basic Conditions Of Employment. Operators are becoming directors of taxi businesses though cooperatives to ensure tax compliance and other levy contributions," she said. On the issue of violence, Phala said the industry was working with all law enforcement. "To address ongoing violence, we have collaborative efforts with law enforcement agencies to combat crimes. Equally, because we understand that turf wars are linked to the competitive nature of the transport sector, we are introducing other value chain opportunities like sale of lubricants and fuel, sale of vehicle parts and other businesses for operators to leverage multiple business opportunities and not focus on one opportunity". IOL Business
