MTN Business has formed a new partnership with the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) in Gauteng. This partnership is part of MTN’s plan to support local businesses that are vital to South Africa’s economy.
Under this agreement, Santaco will become an official reseller of MTN’s business services. These include mobile data, ICT (information and communication technology) services, and connectivity solutions for enterprises. The aim is to help taxi operators and their networks diversify their income streams, offer new services to their customers, and strengthen their role as key economic players in their communities.
MTN’s CEO, Charles Molapisi, explained that this isn’t just about selling connectivity; it’s about creating new value chains, helping township economies grow in the digital age, and contributing to South Africa’s national development goals. The partnership is seen as a way to uplift taxi operators and their communities by providing access to digital tools and opportunities.
Santaco Gauteng’s chairperson, Midday Mali, said the deal marks a new chapter for the taxi industry, showing how technology and connectivity can help improve the lives of operators and the broader community. Both organisations see the taxi industry as a crucial part of South Africa’s informal economy, enabling mobility, trade, and entrepreneurship.
The signing took place at the MTN Innovation Centre, followed by a community event at the Wanderers Taxi Rank in Johannesburg. It highlights MTN’s broader goal of supporting sectors that create jobs, promote economic growth, and drive development.
Charles Molapisi emphasized that this isn’t just a formal agreement but a purpose-driven partnership. By working with Santaco, MTN aims to unlock digital participation and economic opportunities where they are needed most, helping the taxi industry thrive in the modern economy.