WINDHOEK — Lefa Transportation, a prominent electronic-hailing (e-hailing) taxi service provider in Namibia, has announced plans to initiate legal proceedings against the Windhoek City Police, the Namibian Police Force (NamPol), and the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB). The company alleges that these entities have failed to enforce regulations against competing e-taxi services, Yango and Indrive, leading to unfair business practices and safety concerns.

According to Namibia Press Agency, dated 15 July 2024, Yango and Indrive are accused of breaching the Road Transportation Act of 1977 and the Namibian Tourism Board Act of 2000 by operating without proper permits and undercutting prices. These actions, Shimakeleni claims, put the public at risk and disadvantage compliant operators financially. Lefa has reportedly engaged with the concerned authorities multiple times without resolution, prompting this legal challenge. Additionally, a complaint has been lodged with the Competition Commission, backed by a petition from 64 transport operators.

City Police Chief Leevi Ileka, speaking to Nampa, acknowledged receiving numerous complaints about the issue but was unaware of the specific legal threat. He noted that a conference was currently being held in Ongwediva by the Ministry of Works and Transport to discuss the regulation of e-taxi services. The conference, which started today and concludes Wednesday, aims to establish clear guidelines for all public transporters.

Meanwhile, NTB Acting Chief Executive Officer Bonny Mbidzo responded to the allegations by clarifying that the NTB is not responsible for road regulation. Mbidzo emphasized that the issues raised by Lefa are not unique to Namibia, citing similar challenges in South Africa, and stated that the responsibility for enforcement lies with municipal and law enforcement authorities.