What agents need to know about Cape Town taxi strikes
Ilaria Grasso MacolaViolent strikes in Cape Town over the past few days have prompted a Foreign Office travel warning, causing widespread concern among UK agents and holidaymakers.
Issued on Monday (7 August), the travel warning advised Brits to avoid travelling to and from Cape Town International airport as chaos had ensued over the weekend after drivers of minibus taxis – the city’s main mode of transport – went on a week-long strike over “heavy-handed” police tactics.
Cape Town’s tourism body has nevertheless reassured holidaymakers it was working with local authorities to address the industrial conflict while supporting those affected by the disruption.
“Our valued visitors, rest assured that your safety is our unwavering priority,” said Cape Town Tourism chief executive Enver Duminy. “We’re fully committed to addressing these matters, continuously assessing the situation, and providing real-time updates.”
Meanwhile, the local government said it was working alongside the police to “ensure safe passage not only for commuters, but the public at large”.
Authorities have stressed that Cape Town airport is fully functioning, as the roads approaching it were cleared on Monday.
Nevertheless, officials have recommended travellers seek alternative transportation options to and from the airport, urging tourists to arrive at least two and four hours early for domestic and international flights respectively.
Holidaymakers were also called on to check regularly with airlines for updates as well as checking the news for any official announcements.
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Ilaria Grasso Macola
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