Telecommunications group MTN Business has partnered with the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) Gauteng region, as part of its commitment to strengthening local businesses that form the backbone of South Africa’s economy.

Through the strategic partnership, Santaco will become an official reseller of MTN’s suite of business solutions, including mobile data, information and communication technology services and enterprise connectivity tools.

This will enable taxi operators and their networks to diversify their income, offer new services to their customers and strengthen their role as economic actors in their communities.

“We are not just selling connectivity; we are activating new value chains, enabling township economies to thrive in the digital age, and contributing to the inclusive goals of the National Development Plan 2030,” said MTN South Africa CEO Charles Molapisi.

“This partnership marks a new chapter for the taxi industry, one where digital tools and connectivity can help uplift our operators and communities,” said Santaco Gauteng region chairperson Midday Mali.

“We are proud to join forces with MTN Business to bring real economic opportunities to our members and ensure that the transport sector continues to play a vital role in South Africa’s development.”

The transport sector, and particularly the minibus taxi industry, is a significant contributor to South Africa’s informal economy and a key enabler of mobility, commerce and entrepreneurship.

The agreement, signed during a ceremony at the MTN Innovation Centre, followed by a community activation at the Wanderers Taxi Rank in Johannesburg, is part of MTN’s ambitions of supporting sectors that are instrumental in driving national development, job creation and inclusive economic growth.

“Today is more than just a signing ceremony. It is a demonstration of what happens when purpose meets partnership. Santaco is not only a transportation powerhouse, but it also represents community enterprise and resilience at scale. By collaborating with Santaco, we are helping unlock digital and economic participation where it matters most,” Molapisi continued.