It was an emotional evening for the family, friends, colleagues and passengers of Route 6 taxi driver Mzimasi Bam, 59, who was shot dead in Philippi on Friday November 4.
A special memorial service was held at the Town Centre taxi rank on Wednesday November 9.
More than 80 people attended the service where they honoured the life of the husband and father of four.
Mr Bam, who was from Brown’s Farm in Philippi, was killed while he was on his way to work.
People described him as a humble, caring and sincere person.
He had worked in the taxi industry, specifically for Route 6, for 27 years.
Route 6 transports commuters from the Town Centre to Cape Town.
Chairperson of Route 6, Henry “Hawk” Williams, said Mr Bam had been a driver for 22 years and a taxi owner for five years. “We are still in shock over the tragic loss of our brother. He was a true gentleman with a good heart. He was someone we could trust, and was always on time because he was committed to his job.
“The rank was his second home, he spent most of his days and years working in Mitchell’s Plain. He was also a member of the organisation and had big plans with us. For us it is like the starter packed up,” he said.
Fatima Ismail from Lentegeur was a passenger of Mr Bam and said she will miss his affectionate laugh. She travelled with Mr Bam every day to work in Cape Town.
“He was an amazing person and was really good to his passengers. He was never rude and made sure we arrived safely at work and home every day. People used to fight to drive with him because he wasn’t a ‘hell driver’ – but my seat was secured every morning when he would go the extra mile to pick me up at home,” she said.
Ms Ismail said Mr Bam was a traditional leader and always had a red and white band on his head and he enjoyed listening to gospel music.
Friend and neighbour, Zekevu Gaqa said Mr Bam was shot inside his taxi.
“When walking towards the crime scene I was hoping that it wasn’t him, but sadly it was him and I felt really awful. Mr Bam, was a good friend and will be missed by many,” he said.
Police confirmed the incident.