Allexer Namundjembo
Ride-hailing operator Yango says it is working with Namibian authorities to address regulatory concerns over the legality of its e-hailing services.
The company made the remarks during a media engagement with independent fleet partners in Windhoek on Friday.
The session focused on compliance with public passenger transport permit requirements set by the Ministry of Works and Transport.
Yango’s head of public policy for Africa, Zanyiwe Asare, said the company supports efforts to regulate the sector.
“We have heard the concerns raised regarding public passenger permits. We want to be clear; Yango supports the formalisation of the e-hailing sector,” she said.
She said the company is in a “transition phase” as it works towards full compliance. “Our goal is a seamless, 100% compliant service, one that continues to provide affordable mobility and earning opportunities for Namibians,” she said.
Asare said the company could not provide the number of drivers on the platform due to constant changes.
“We could not provide the statistics, as the number we can give today will be different next week,” she added.
The Ministry of Works and Transport has maintained that e-hailing operators must follow the same laws as other public transport services.
Works and transport minister Veiko Nekundi has said the law does not distinguish between taxis and digital platforms.
He said any vehicle transporting paying passengers must have a valid permit.
According to the ministry, failure to comply affects the regulated transport system and creates unfair competition.
The Windhoek City Police have stepped up enforcement.
The police have stopped and impounded vehicles suspected of operating without permits.
City police said drivers offering services without valid permits are operating illegally and enforcement is aimed at ensuring compliance.
They also said passengers using unlicensed operators may face safety risks if vehicles do not meet required standards.
Other operators, including Lefa, have called for clearer rules for digital transport services.
Lefa previously said the current system was designed for traditional taxis and does not fully address app-based services. It has called for reforms that support both compliance and innovation.
The law requires drivers transporting passengers for payment to hold a valid public passenger transport permit.
They must also operate a registered and roadworthy vehicle, possess a valid driver’s licence, have passenger liability insurance and comply with relevant municipal regulations.
