Greater Westonaria Taxi Association successfully hosts cleaning campaign at Kgothalang Secondary School in Bekkersdal. 

Thabo Motlhabi

Greater Westonaria Taxi Association gave back to one of the local schools. The Greater Westonaria Taxi Association successfully hosted a cleaning campaign at Kgothalang Secondary School in Bekkersdal on Monday, January 12, 2026. The event took place on the school premises ahead of the official reopening of the academic year. 

Local public transport remains the primary means of travel for many township residents, both for short and long distances. Over the years, a strong relationship has developed between the taxi industry and the community it serves, one that continues to be valuable today and into the future. 

This annual cleaning campaign is held before schools reopen with the aim of creating a conducive learning environment. The Greater Westonaria Taxi Association took upon itself to ensure that the school was clean, welcoming, and ready for learners. Many of the taxi drivers who participated are parents of these learners at this school, strengthening the bond between the institution and the community.  Kgothalang Secondary School has produced numerous academics and professionals whom the Bekkersdal community is proud of today. 

Key stakeholders involved in the initiative included: 

SANTACO 

The Principal of Kgothalang Secondary School expressed his gratitude, Mr. Kgosietsile Moeng saying:

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank SANTACO and the Greater Westonaria Taxi Association for the good work they have consistently done for this school over the years.  Colleagues have come together to ensure that the school is clean and ready for the new academic year. Everyone is here to support and assist the school in creating a clean and welcoming environment. We sincerely thank everyone who contributed.”

For the taxi association, the cleaning campaign was another way of giving back to the Bekkersdal community and strengthening its relationship with the residents.  As most community members rely on taxis for daily transportation, the partnership between the taxi industry and the society has grown over time, with this event standing as a testament to that positive relationship. 

As the Chairperson of the Greater Westonaria Taxi Association, Mr Bonakele Mbozwane said, “We thank the Principal for opening the gates for us as the Association to give back through this community project. Our mission is to strengthen and prolong our relationship with schools and the community members of Bekkersdal, who are our clients and support our business daily. Today, we are giving back with open hands.  We encourage the school leadership, staff, and learners to keep the school clean and to have a successful academic year. We want our learners to be inspired by a clean environment that promotes positive learning. In the future, if the school is faced with such challenges, they’re welcome to contact us, and we will be willing to assist them.”

At the conclusion of the cleaning campaign, all participants rolled up their sleeves and worked together to clean both the interior and exterior of the schoolyard, ensuring full preparedness for the 2026 academic year.