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By Khumo Monde
After months of disruption, commuter transport services are set to resume in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District with the appointment of a new operator, Ikhwezi Tasmica Joint Venture. The previous operator’s contract was terminated on 5 March 2025 due to persistent failure to meet Service Level Agreement (SLA) obligations, including deploying only 40% of required buses – 55 out of 133 – leaving passengers stranded and routes underserviced.
Government efforts to salvage the situation through meetings and warnings failed, culminating in a termination notice issued on 21 November 2024, which gave three months for improvement – a period marked by further decline. Drivers reportedly faced instructions to overload buses and drive mechanically compromised vehicles, risking passenger safety. Commuters faced unreliability, unsafe conditions and invalidated tickets, prompting grievances via the Commuter Forum.
Legal hurdles delayed appointment of the new operator, but a 26 September 2025 High Court ruling dismissed the previous operator’s challenge, clearing the way forward. Ikhwezi Tasmica Joint Venture promises safe, reliable service. Former Atamelang employees will be prioritised for absorption in three phases: current staff, those who resigned under duress, and those dismissed questionably. Training for drivers and staff is underway; Employer/Employee committees aid transition.
Services launch phased, focusing initially on key Mahikeng, Lichtenburg and Zeerust routes. Commuters are appealed to for patience as depots are secured – Lehurutshe is currently the sole intact facility. Gratitude is expressed to the taxi industry for transitional support; collaboration between bus and taxi sectors is encouraged, with SANTACO leadership pivotal.
“This marks a new beginning for reliable public transport in our Province,” signalling commitment to restoring commuter dignity, safety and efficiency under the motto “Let’s Grow North West Together”.
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