August 9th marks a pivotal day in South Africa’s history — a day when we pause, reflect, and honour the courageous spirit of women. At the National Taxi Alliance (NTA), we take immense pride in joining the rest of the nation in celebrating the power, resilience, and unwavering contribution of women — not only to our democracy but to the everyday fabric of South African life.
The Legacy of 1956: A March that Changed History
Women’s Day is rooted in the historic events of August 9, 1956, when over 20,000 women of all races and backgrounds marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria. Their mission? To protest against the pass laws that sought to restrict the freedom of movement for black South Africans.
Among these fearless leaders were:
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Lilian Ngoyi – a trade unionist and the first woman elected to the ANC’s National Executive Committee.
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Helen Joseph – an anti-apartheid activist of British descent, who remained under house arrest for years because of her outspoken resistance.
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Rahima Moosa – a stalwart from the Transvaal Indian Congress who mobilised thousands of women across racial lines.
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Sophia Williams-De Bruyn – the youngest leader of the 1956 march, and the only one still living today, reminding us of the bravery of that day.
These women stood united in their diversity, strength, and conviction, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations.
Women in the Taxi Industry: Quiet Giants of the Road
The taxi industry, often seen as male-dominated, has long benefited from the often-overlooked efforts of women. From mothers running taxi ranks, wives balancing books, and female drivers breaking stereotypes, women have always been integral to the functioning and growth of the sector.
At the NTA, we recognize that behind every thriving taxi business, there’s often a woman whose strength, patience, and determination keeps the wheels turning — quite literally and metaphorically. Whether it’s the mother who wakes up before sunrise to prepare food for the drivers, the administrator who balances complex finances, or the female owner managing her own fleet — their contributions are invaluable.
We are also witnessing a new wave of women stepping into leadership roles, not only advocating for their rights within the industry but also shaping its future.
Modern-Day Trailblazers: Icons of Empowerment
South Africa is blessed with a new generation of powerful women who continue to raise the bar:
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Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, a seasoned politician, has held several ministerial positions and served as Chairperson of the African Union Commission — the first woman to do so.
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Thuli Madonsela, former Public Protector, whose unwavering integrity helped transform the legal landscape and public trust in governance.
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Zozibini Tunzi, Miss Universe 2019, who championed natural beauty and female empowerment on a global stage.
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Professor Salimah Valiani, a nurse and health activist, contributing vital work in healthcare justice and policy reform.
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Mandisa Mfeka, South Africa’s first Black female fighter pilot, redefining what’s possible for women in male-dominated fields.
These women — and countless others — are walking testaments to what South African women can achieve when given space, opportunity, and respect.
The Role of the NTA: Supporting Our Sisters on the Road
As the National Taxi Alliance, we believe our role extends beyond the mechanics of transport — we are a community hub, an economic driver, and a force for social impact.
This Women’s Day, we are doubling down on our commitment to:
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Promote gender inclusivity within taxi associations and operations.
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Create pathways for female leadership within the industry.
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Support education and empowerment initiatives for women in our communities.
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Celebrate and uplift women at all levels of the taxi ecosystem.
We understand that when women thrive, our industry thrives. When women feel safe, heard, and empowered, it creates a ripple effect — transforming families, businesses, and society.
A Tribute to the Women We See Everyday
We want to honour:
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The single mother who sends her child to school with taxi fare earned from informal trading.
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The woman driver facing daily risks but showing up with courage and determination.
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The grandmother who uses taxis daily to connect her family, her church, and her community.
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The young girl watching and dreaming of one day owning her own taxi business.
To all these women: we see you, we thank you, and we walk beside you.
“You Strike a Woman, You Strike a Rock”
That historic chant from 1956 still echoes today. Women are the backbone of our communities. They are the rocks upon which families are built, businesses thrive, and society heals.
As the NTA, we recommit ourselves to creating a safer, more equitable, and empowering space for women — not just on Women’s Day, but every single day.
To the women of South Africa — past, present, and future — you are the light on our journey, the strength behind our strides, and the heart that keeps us moving forward.
Happy Women’s Day.
From all of us at the National Taxi Alliance.