Monika Amunyela
Yango Namibia has called for practical transition measures as hundreds of drivers using the e-hailing platform continue to face delays in obtaining proper transport permits, required under Namibia’s new regulations.
The company states that many drivers are struggling to complete the process within the allocated 56-day compliance period.
This is due to long administrative procedures, high application numbers and some drivers failing to understand some of the requirements.
Speaking during a media and stakeholder engagement session held in Windhoek recently, Yango Namibia’s country representative Alex Mungai said the company supports the government’s efforts to regulate the digital transport industry but believes more time and support may be needed for drivers to fully comply.
“Yango fully supports the formalisation of the e-hailing industry in Namibia. At the same time, the application process involves several administrative stages that many drivers are still navigating within a limited timeframe,” he said.
The company stated that more than two thirds of drivers registered on the platform have either started or submitted permit applications.
Yango’s compliance team has processed more than 1 500 applications, although 284 are still pending due to outstanding code of conduct requirements.
The company said 1 257 applications have already been submitted to the Roads Authority, with around 440 approved so far.
Another 267 applications were rejected and are now being reviewed for reapplication.
The company added that many drivers rely on e-hailing services as their main source of income, stating that delays in the permit process could affect both driver earnings and access to transport services for the public.
To help drivers during this new period, the company has increased compliance awareness sessions, driver support programmes, stakeholder meetings and assistance with permit applications.
Mungai acknowledged that recent efforts by authorities to speed up permit approvals requires “continuous engagement between industry participants and regulators to build a safe, compliant and sustainable e-hailing sector,” he said.