Taxi drivers in Windhoek are calling for an increase in taxi fares by another ten percent following last Wednesday's fuel price hikes, which saw petrol rise by two dollars and diesel by N$3 per litre. 

The drivers say rising fuel costs are putting pressure on their daily operating expenses, prompting calls for an adjustment to taxi fares.

Some taxi drivers are proposing that the current taxi fare be increased from N$15.00 to N$16.50. 

One of the taxi drivers in Windhoek, Denis Taukondjele, pleaded with the Road Transportation Board to consider an increase, as they only make money during peak hours, threatening to strike.

"We only drive in the morning for two hours, then lunchtime for one hour thirty minutes, then you wait until the customers knock off at five for one hour. At the end of the day, you only cash up N$300, and if you take out money for petrol, then nothing will be left for the owner of the car. So it is best that they increase a bit."

Namibia Bus and Taxi Association (NABTA) chairperson Pendapala Nakathingo says he is in support of the taxi drivers' call for an increment, but there is a need for engagement with the Road Transportation Board.

"Before a strike, we have to engage the government. We are going to submit a proposal to the Ministry of Works and Transport through the Road Transportation Board of Namibia to remove all the illegal taxi operators."

Road Transportation Board of Namibia (RTBN) chairperson Browny Mutrifa said that they have not yet received any application for the taxi fare increase.

"We therefore are not able to make any pronouncement with respect to the responsibility of a taxi fare increase."