LIMELITE CABS - FROM JIKELEZA TO TRANSPORT IN STYLE

Limelite Cabs recently installed camera's in their vehicles

Limelite Cabs started from humble beginnings but now lead the way in terms of safety and quality transport for their passenger in Nelson Mandela Bays. This year they have gone as far as fitting cameras on the vehicles to gain more control, ensuring that we give an honest service. In addition the Limelite cabs also upgraded our Netstar tracking.

Owner and Director of Limelite Cabs, Sakumzi Bambalaza, shares, “The camera’s have added that unique touch to upgrade service and allow passengers to feel safe and secure as we are able to monitor the camera’s from a central local constantly.”

Mr Bambalaza started his business in 2000 by doing “jikeleza” in the townships and from client requests for a variety of drop off points and pickups the business expanded. At that time Mr Bambalaza confirms most cab companies were hesitant to venture into the townships and that is how he built up a clientele base.

This later grew in even more in 2008 when the Soccer World Cup buzz started and the business could further benefit so Limelite Cabs acquired more vehicles and ran an office from humble beginnings in his backyard.

By 2010 Limelite had 11 vehicles, all Toyota corolla's & Toyota conquest and  2011 ensured Limelite had registered the company got permits, insurance & passenger liability cover. In addition their vehicles were branded and by fitted two way radios.

Limelite Cabs spent time and capital in training new drivers and providing uniforms. This is evident when you see the red black and white brand approach you for a pick up or drop off. Drivers were trained with up to date driver’s licence and PDP’s for the cabs. In addition customer service orientation was high on the list of priorities in order to provide top service to locals and visitors.

Mr Bambalaza confirms, “Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism has provided a tremendous amount of support in terms of development, education and growth as well training on how to harness business opportunities from the tourism sector.”

Limelite business has grown from strength to strength and they are now able to create employment opportunities for others. Through the assistance of the labour department I have been in a position to provide contracts, UIF and employment compensation for the employees’ therefore creating a healthy work environment.

“In order to get my business to grow, I knew I had to get a mentor, from who learnt a lot. I also did market research at NMMU University, got a good response from the students. I moved our office from the back of my house to the Transnet building at Sidwell.” Shares Mr Bambalza

Mr Bambalaza further confirms that at the beginning of this year I joined The Hope factory, I learnt a lot about business management, I have a mentor who is very good at what she does. We still have a long way to go but I am learning everyday from her and the people around me. I have learnt to never give up and learn from those who surround you to grow and reach your dreams every day.