Codeta honours their veterans

Veteran taxi operators under the affiliation of the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA) were honoured for their contribution to the organisation, at a packed OR Tambo Hall last Thursday, May 8.

Each of the 42 taxi operators received blankets and framed photographs of themselves in the organisation's colours.

The leadership of the Makhaza to Somerset route went a step further by awarding their three veterans an additional R5 000 as a show of gratitude.

Andile Poni, William Tokhwe, Maqwetheni Shenxane from the Somerset route were recognised for their solid leadership.

Mr Poni said he had mixed emotions as this was something that he never thought about and it was clear that the current leadership values their work.

He said he was grateful that this ceremony was held while he was alive and in good spirits so that he could enjoy the moment. He said he was extremely grateful that his route opted to add R5000 on top of what they received and they were driven by SUVs to the event.

 “I have never thought about this and this is clearly a sign of good leadership. I hope that even the next leaders will take this organisation to new heights. This is my proudest moment in the industry and this shows that we are led by leaders who have good heart and soul.” 

Mr Poni said he started in the industry informally in 1985 and it was in 1988 when he became a registered member of the organisation. 

Reminiscing about his journey, he described 1990 as one of the most difficult years in the industry when they were in conflict with other organisations.

He said people were not even sleeping at their homes, fearing for their lives. He was glad that those days are long gone and his association has implemented a different style of leadership, which enables everyone to have a sense of belonging and safety. 

CODETA president, Fikile George, said they had planned to host this event sometime last year but were not able to do so. He urged other members to honour and treat these veterans with respect and appreciate the endless sacrifices they had made for the now blossoming organisation.

He informed the veterans that it was no longer compulsory to perform organisational duties or attend meetings; they could attend meetings only if they wanted to. He said this is the first event of this nature and they wanted to have it annual. 

Mr Tokhwe said being honoured at this event was one of his highlights in the taxi industry. He praised the leadership of his route for always standing up and ensuring that all the veterans feel loved and cared for. He said he had been in the industry for 36 years and had never seen something as beautiful as this appreciation ceremony.

Somerset route chairperson, Vuyani Dyantyi, said these veterans raised them in the industry and welcomed them with open hearts and hands - and for that they always remain indebted to them. He said they provided parenting and empowered them with skills to operate the business and if it was not for them, they would not have something to put on the table.