The Cape Organisation for Democratic Taxi Association (Codeta) has given a cheque for R100 000 to its administrative officer, Lusanda Magoda, saying it recognises her almost 30 years of unbroken service.

She received the cheque at Codeta's annual general meeting at the OR Tambo Hall on Thursday February 13.

Ms Magoda, 51, who has announced her intention to step down this year, said she had not expected to receive the cheque.

Ms Magoda said she had started to work at the taxi rank 27 years ago, in 1998, at the age of 24.

She said the industry was often viewed as being exclusively for men, but that perception was false, and she was glad that she had been able to open doors for other women, allowing them to see the industry in a different way.

“I have served this association with diligence and commitment. I have enjoyed each and every minute that I spent here at the association. This has been my home for years and I have raised and built my home from working in this industry.

"I have no words to describe how I feel about this. I will be ever grateful to every leadership of this beautiful organisation,” she said.

Ms Magoda said that over the years she has bought two taxis and had joined the association.

Codeta president Fikile George said Ms Magoda's departure would leave a void that would be hard to fill as she had served the association with pride and passion.

Codeta offered no employee benefits, but it had been decided to show appreciation to such a long-serving employee nevertheless, he said, adding that the cheque she had received would, no doubt, be inadequate had she worked for a formal company.

During the meeting, Mr George also announced that the association had registered a security company as a way to create multiple income streams.

There were also plans for the association to present awards to those taxi drivers and operators who excelled at improving taxi commuters' experiences.

He urged the association's members to respect each other and avoid unnecessary conflicts and fights.