MEC Nqatha Condemns Taxi Bias Against Woman with Vitiligo

Eastern Cape DOT Condemns Discrimination by Mdantsane Taxi Driver

East London – The Eastern Cape Department of Transport (EC DOT) has strongly condemned an alleged incident in Mdantsane Township, East London, where a woman claims she was refused a ride by a privately owned taxi because of her vitiligo, a visible skin condition. The matter, which occurred about a month ago, was recently brought to the Department’s attention.

While this appears to be an isolated incident, EC DOT emphasises that discrimination of any kind by taxi operators is unacceptable. No passenger should be denied transport because of a medical condition, physical appearance, or harmful stereotypes.

Eastern Cape Transport MEC, Xolile Nqatha, said:

“Discrimination of any kind by taxi operators is completely unacceptable. No person should ever be denied access to transport because of their physical appearance, medical condition, or harmful stereotypes. People living with vitiligo, albinism, or other visible skin conditions are entitled to the same dignity, respect, and freedom of movement as every other citizen.”

MEC Nqatha further noted that while this incident involves vitiligo, it highlights a broader, longstanding challenge:

“Although this particular case relates to vitiligo, we cannot ignore the discrimination and stigma faced by people with albinism and other visible skin conditions. These harmful beliefs, often rooted in myth and superstition, have no place in a democratic society and cannot influence conduct in the taxi industry or any other sector.”

The Department will engage with relevant taxi industry associations to address this matter directly, reinforce non-discrimination principles, and strengthen education and sensitisation initiatives for taxi operators.

EC DOT emphasises that all private transport operators must uphold human dignity at all times, ensuring services are rendered fairly, respectfully, and without prejudice. These efforts form part of a broader initiative to promote safe, inclusive, and dignified transport for all Eastern Cape residents.