Namibia is tightening regulations on ride-hailing services as authorities move to formalise the fast-growing digital transport sector, with platform operator Yango pledging to comply with the new requirements.
The company said it is working with local partners to ensure drivers obtain the necessary public passenger permits and meet licensing conditions set by the transport ministry.
“We have heard the concerns raised regarding public passenger permits. Yango supports the formalisation of the e-hailing sector,” said Zanyiwe Asare, adding that the firm is engaging fleet operators and drivers to meet regulatory standards.
Yango said it will also strengthen verification systems to prevent misuse of its platform, including cases where unregistered drivers operate under other accounts.
The move follows warnings from Namibian authorities, who are seeking to bring greater oversight to a sector that has expanded rapidly in recent years, often outpacing existing regulatory frameworks.
Officials say the tighter rules are aimed at improving passenger safety, ensuring fair competition and increasing accountability among operators.
Yango added that it is continuing discussions with regulators to align its business model with national laws, as governments across Africa step up efforts to regulate digital transport platforms.
Analysts say the challenge for ride-hailing firms will be to balance innovation and rapid growth with compliance, particularly in markets where regulatory systems are still evolving.
Namibia has seen rapid growth in digital transport services in recent years, driven by the rise of ride-hailing platforms such as Yango, Uber, and Bolt. These services have expanded access to convenient transport, particularly in urban centres like Windhoek, but have also posed regulatory challenges.
The Namibian government has increasingly sought to formalise the sector to ensure passenger safety, standardise licensing, and regulate fare structures. Authorities have highlighted concerns over unlicensed drivers, unregistered vehicles, and inadequate oversight, which could compromise safety and reduce tax compliance.
Ride-hailing platforms operating in Namibia are now required to ensure that all drivers possess valid public passenger permits and comply with transport regulations. Companies are also expected to implement robust verification systems to prevent misuse of accounts and vehicles.
The formalisation drive reflects a broader trend across Africa, where governments are introducing regulations to integrate digital platforms into legal frameworks while balancing innovation and market growth. Analysts note that successful regulation could improve consumer confidence, protect drivers, and encourage investment in the sector.
Yango’s pledge to comply with Namibia’s rules underscores a growing recognition by tech-enabled transport firms of the importance of aligning operations with national laws to sustain long-term business and public trust.
