Outdated permit system fuels frustration in Walvis taxi industry

Transport minister Veikko Nekundi has confirmed that decades-old transport permit policies are at the centre of growing unrest in Walvis Bay’s taxi industry.Speaking during a meeting with taxi operators in the harbour town last week, Nekundi said the indefinite permit system – some permits dating back to the 1970s – had enabled corrupt and exploitative practices, including the renting of permits to non-owners at rates of N$500 to N$1 000 per month.“This is not just about permits, it’s about justice, livelihoods and dignity,” he said.Nekundi confirmed that his office and the Presidency had not been informed of recent permit confiscations by traffic officers. He described this as a failure in communication and policy enforcement.While defending the officers involved, he said the real issue lies in a regulatory vacuum.“They are operating under outdated frameworks,” he said, calling for reforms targeting the root cause of the unrest.New systemHe announced that all indefinite permits will be phased out and replaced by two-year renewable permits. Only owners of roadworthy vehicles will be eligible. The application deadline is 30 September, with same-day processing for complete submissions and a built-in public objection period.Nekundi also warned against blanket blame.“There are good traffic officers and bad traffic officers. Good politicians and bad politicians. We cannot condemn everyone for the misdeeds of some,” he said.Taxi driver Owen Nyambe and taxi owner Robert Smith welcomed the intervention and praised the minister’s direct engagement.

Outdated permit system fuels frustration in Walvis taxi industry

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Namibian Sun 2026-03-16

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Outdated permit system fuels frustration in Walvis taxi industry

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Namibian Sun 2026-03-16

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