Minister Neo Matjato Moteane Addresses Transport Permit Concerns in Meeting With School Bus and 4+1 Operators

The Minister of Public Works and Transport, Hon. Neo Matjato Moteane, held key meetings on 20 May 2026 with representatives of school bus operators and 4+1 bus operators to address growing concerns within the public transport sector. The discussions came after operators formally submitted written complaints to the Ministry, outlining grievances and requesting direct intervention from the Minister. The meetings focused on clarifying misunderstandings, reviewing compliance issues, and reinforcing the Ministry’s regulatory expectations. The engagement also aimed to restore confidence between government and transport operators who rely on permits and certificates to run their businesses. The Minister used the platform to directly respond to concerns that had caused tension and uncertainty in the sector.

During the meeting with school bus operators, Hon. Moteane addressed what he described as misinformation circulating within the industry. He clarified that there was no government plan through the Ministry to eliminate school bus operators or undermine their role in transporting learners. He further corrected the perception that operators were being deliberately sidelined due to irregular seasonal permits. The Minister emphasized that permits remain available at the Ministry and that operators must follow the proper administrative channels to access them. He urged operators to prioritize compliance and maintain focus on the safety and security of children, highlighting that this responsibility remains central to their operations. The discussion reinforced the importance of cooperation between the Ministry and operators to ensure uninterrupted and safe school transport services.

In the same engagement, the Minister also met with representatives of 4+1 bus operators whose certificates had been suspended after they failed to collect them within the required timeframe. The Ministry explained that the suspension was based on non-compliance with established administrative procedures, not an intention to permanently deny access to operating rights. The key decision reached during this meeting was that affected traders would be required to submit written affidavits explaining why they were unable to complete the required steps after their certificates were issued by the Board. Each operator will need to provide individual reasons to support their case for reconsideration. The Ministry indicated that these submissions will be reviewed to determine appropriate next steps in line with regulatory frameworks. This process is intended to ensure fairness while maintaining order in the licensing system.

The meeting also highlighted broader concerns around compliance, communication, and administrative efficiency within the transport sector. Operators raised issues about delays, access to permits, and clarity of procedures, while the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and structured processes. Hon. Moteane encouraged continued dialogue between stakeholders and the Ministry to prevent misunderstandings that can disrupt essential transport services. He also stressed that regulatory systems are designed to ensure accountability and safety, not to obstruct legitimate business operations. Both school transport and 4+1 operators were reminded that adherence to rules is essential for long-term stability and trust in the sector. The discussions reflected an effort to balance enforcement with support for small and medium transport businesses.

The engagements between the Minister and transport operators marked an important step in addressing tensions within the sector while reinforcing regulatory expectations. By directly engaging with stakeholders, the Ministry aimed to resolve disputes, clarify policies, and strengthen working relationships with operators who play a vital role in daily mobility and education access. The outcomes of the meetings underscored the need for compliance, communication, and responsibility among all parties involved. With affidavits to be submitted and permits still accessible through proper channels, the process moving forward will focus on structured resolution of outstanding issues. The Ministry’s position remains centered on maintaining safe, reliable, and legally compliant transport services across the country.