In a heartwarming display of solidarity, a group of Nelspruit taxi drivers dressed as women to honor the women of Mzansi. The event, which took place on Friday, 30 August, saw 35-year-old Muzi Sibeko and his fellow drivers don dresses to pay tribute to women and raise awareness of their daily challenges.
Muzi, a Lekazi taxi driver who has been in the industry for 13 years, shared that preparing his outfit took over a week, highlighting the effort involved. “This was the first time we swapped genders in Mbombela, and it wasn’t easy,” he said. “We struggled to find proper outfits, but it was worth it to show women the respect they deserve.”
“I now understand that women have to go the extra mile to look good. That’s why we have to show them love and respect every day. They go through a lot to ensure they make things possible,” Muzi added.
During the event, the drivers also distributed sanitary towels and doeks (headscarves) to women at the taxi rank, particularly targeting elderly women as a gesture of appreciation. Ernest Sibiya, another participating driver, explained, “This was our way to express appreciation to women. We bought doeks because we believe the elderly women deserve the throne.”
“We braved the cold weather to resemble women because we care about them. We know their struggles and will always support them,” Ernest emphasized.
John Mavundla, Chairman of the Topstar Taxi Association, also weighed in, encouraging unemployed women to join the taxi industry. “Women are very important in our lives. By doing this, we wanted to send a message that we appreciate them. Our industry is mostly supported by women, and we are against any man that abuses women,” Mavundla stated.
The drivers plan to continue this initiative, hoping to make their appreciation for women a regular feature in their community.
The day was not just a fun-filled celebration; it was a powerful message of unity and respect, showing that even in traditionally male-dominated spaces, there is room to honor and support women.
— Daily Sun