Independent Facilitation for the Industry Transition process within the City of Ekurhuleni (2022 – 2024)

Mzuzu Group was contracted to perform Independent Facilitation services for the Industry Transition Process of the IRPTN within the City of Ekurhuleni. As Facilitators, we convened multiple engagements as per approved engagements structure, enabling the Parties (City of Ekurhuleni and the Potentially Affected Operators) to determine and agree on the most suitable process to achieve a successful outcome of Industry Transition Process. As part of the Scope of Work, the Facilitators also provided mediation, dispute resolution, and interpretation and translation services for the duration of the entire project.

Key Deliverables:

1 .      Successful update of the Business Value and Market Share Surveys, and Cost Questionnaire;

2.       Successful planning, execution and monitoring of the Registration Process for Phase 1A (concluding on 28 February 2023);

3.       Facilitation of Verification of collected Registration Data process between City of Ekurhuleni, Ekurhuleni Taxi Industry and the Gauteng Transport Operating Licensing Administrative Boards (using the approved Affectedness Criteria);

4.       Preparation of Registration Process Dispute Resolution process (in anticipating the conclusion of the Registration Process);

5.       Preparation of the Value Chain Beneficiation Benchmark Report (using City of Tshwane, City of Johannesburg and City of Cape Town as Case Studies);

6.      Successful launch of Phase 1A Permanent Negotiations (29 January 2024);

7.      Facilitated the On-Boarding of Phase 1B & 1C Potentially Affected Operators;

8.      Planning, Execution and Conclusion of On-Boarding and Market Value Survey Process of Vosloorus, Boksburg District Taxi Association.

Impact:

 The industry transition process, facilitated by Mzuzu Group, has had a significant impact on the client, community, and the broader public transport industry. For the City of Ekurhuleni, the project's successful facilitation has ensured that the IPTN negotiations and implementations proceeded smoothly, preventing delays, violence and service disruptions.

 The project has led to more efficient and affordable public transport options, reducing commuting costs and improving access to reliable transportation. The integration of various public transport stakeholders, including the minibus taxi industry, municipal and private bus operators, and other stakeholders, has created a cohesive and seamless transport system.

 The project has fostered greater collaboration and buy-in from all involved parties. The facilitated engagement and continuous consultation have built trust and cooperation, ensuring that all stakeholders' interests are adequately represented and addressed.

References:

Ekurhuleni Taxi Industry	City Of Ekurhuleni
Mr Zweli A Mnisi Secretary General: Ekurhuleni Taxi Industry	Mr Rudazni C. Madzhie Head: IRPTN City Of Ekurhuleni