South Africa is moving forward with plans to modernise public transport. A Tap-and-Go Payment System Coming for SA Taxis is now in the works. This system will integrate trains, buses, and taxis into one smart ticketing platform.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy announced that the Department of Transport has issued a Request for Information (RFI). This aims to attract private-sector investment and innovation in public transport infrastructure.
What Is the Tap-and-Go System?
The Tap-and-Go system allows commuters to pay for multiple transport modes using a single card or mobile wallet. With Near Field Communication (NFC) or RFID technology, passengers can tap their phone or card when entering and exiting public transport.
The goal is to eliminate the need for multiple tickets or cash payments. Similar systems exist in France (Navigo Pass), Germany (Deutschland-Ticket), and Switzerland (Swiss Travel Pass).
Read more about Johannesburg’s latest transit update in Rea Vaya Route Opens After 10-Year Delay – Buses to Resume Operations.
Why South Africa Needs This System
South Africa’s public transport system is highly fragmented. Many commuters must use a mix of taxis, trains, and buses, each with separate fares. This makes commuting expensive and inefficient.
Currently, around 15 million South Africans rely on minibus taxis daily. Most payments are made in cash. This presents issues around safety, income tracking, and financial exclusion.
Tap-and-Go Payment System Coming for SA Taxis: Addressing the Taxi Sector
The taxi industry generates between R90 billion and R100 billion annually, mostly in untaxed cash. The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) has called for its formalisation.
Wayne Duvenage, OUTA CEO, stated:
“A formal system would ensure fair taxation and provide financial opportunities for drivers.”
Taxi associations, however, argue they already pay personal taxes. They remain cautious about digital systems due to previous failed rollouts.
Pilot Projects Already Underway
In Cape Town, a Tap-to-Phone pilot was launched on the Mitchells Plain to Bellville route. Developed by Loop and Visa, the system lets commuters pay using cards or smartphones.
In the North West, Waxd Solutions introduced a cashless system with biometric and card tap options. CEO Anthony Stewart noted:
“Drivers using our system can now access credit, prove income, and even save thousands on loan repayments.”
These pilots show the potential for wider adoption, but also highlight the need for strong partnerships with taxi associations.
Learn how the province plans to improve commuter safety in Lesufi Pushes Cashless Taxi Payments to Fight Crime in Gauteng.
Benefits for Commuters and Drivers
For commuters, the Tap-and-Go system promises faster boarding, reduced queue times, and safer travel without cash. For drivers, it offers digital income records, access to loans, and greater financial security.
Operators and the government benefit through better data, efficient fare collection, and improved subsidy tracking.
Challenges to Nationwide Rollout
Despite its promise, there are hurdles. These include regulatory gaps, fragmented oversight, and mistrust within the taxi sector. More than 14 attempts at cashless taxi systems have failed.
Building trust, providing training, and offering flexible access to funds will be critical. Technology alone will not be enough.
The Role of the Private Sector
Minister Creecy emphasised the importance of private-sector involvement. The Department has formally invited innovative proposals that could bring world-class systems to local communities.
“The private sector has an important role to play to make this a reality,” said Creecy.
Discover why ride-hailing users are reconsidering their options in South Africans Turning Away from Uber Amid Growing Safety and Pricing Concerns.
A Unified Public Transport Future
A Tap-and-Go Payment System Coming for SA Taxis, buses, and trains could transform South African mobility. It promises a more inclusive, transparent, and efficient transport network.
With public-private collaboration, and lessons from global models, this vision could soon become reality.
