Altron Celebrates 60 Years by Reimagining Johannesburg’s Future

As Altron marks its 60th anniversary in 2025, the proudly South African technology company is doing more than looking back—it’s looking forward with a bold commitment to Johannesburg’s future.

Founded in 1965, Altron has long played a role in shaping the city’s economic and technological landscape. Now, six decades later, the JSE-listed firm is reaffirming its belief in Johannesburg’s potential for renewal. Through storytelling, partnerships, and tech-driven initiatives, Altron is responding to the call to help revive the city at the heart of South Africa’s economy.

A New Lens on Johannesburg’s Story

To commemorate this milestone, Altron is collaborating with renowned historian Michael Charton—best known for My Father’s Coat—to retell the story of Johannesburg in a powerful new way. This narrative performance, set to tour throughout April, pays tribute to the city’s industrial legacy and the visionaries who helped shape it.

“Commemorating our 60th anniversary by telling this story is significant because Johannesburg is the beating heart of South Africa’s economy,” says Altron CEO Werner Kapp. “Our story is intertwined with Joburg’s, and this celebration is about reaffirming our commitment to the city’s future.”

Rebuilding Through Technology

Altron’s belief in Johannesburg’s rejuvenation goes far beyond symbolism. The company is making a tangible impact:

• SafeCity Initiative: Altron subsidiary Netstar has rolled out smart surveillance and License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology across Gauteng, enhancing safety and visibility in public spaces.

• Transport Safety with Putco: Working with bus operator Putco, Netstar has installed vehicle tracking and onboard cameras, resulting in a remarkable 70% drop in recorded accidents across a fleet transporting 260,000 daily passengers.

• Enabling Financial Inclusion: Through its FinTech business, Altron supports over 10,500 SMEs in Johannesburg. Last year alone, its payaway platforms—like PayShap and ATM payouts—facilitated nearly R7 billion in disbursements, driving more than 4.1 million digital transactions.

“These are just some of the examples where Altron’s technology makes a positive impact on the lives of ordinary South Africans,” adds Kapp.

Partnering for Purpose: Jozi My Jozi

Central to Altron’s renewal vision is its partnership with Jozi My Jozi, a civic movement dedicated to reimagining the city through grassroots passion and action. Together, they’re working to:

• Align employee volunteer efforts with community initiatives

• Beautify public spaces and revive civic pride

• Expand ICT education and career opportunities for youth

• Co-create smart, scalable solutions to city-wide challenges

“Partnerships are the cornerstone of progress,” says Bea Swanepoel, CEO of Jozi My Jozi. “By joining forces with Altron and other stakeholders, we can build a Johannesburg that is inclusive, thriving, and future-ready.”

Altron sees Johannesburg’s current struggles not as a dead end, but a call to action.

“Degradation should never be something we get used to,” says Kapp. “We must see the city’s potential as a burning platform for change—as businesses, individuals, and citizens.”

With a legacy of innovation behind it and a purpose-driven vision ahead, Altron is committed to shaping a simpler, safer, and smarter tomorrow.

As the company enters its next chapter, it invites all stakeholders to join in the mission of rebuilding Johannesburg—restoring its legacy as a vibrant economic powerhouse and a city of opportunity for all.

Source Tech Financials}

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