City of Johannesburg Rolls Out Free Wi-Fi at Rea Vaya Bus Stations

The City of Johannesburg has introduced free Wi-Fi at Rea Vaya bus stations, aiming to improve connectivity for commuters. The project, managed by the Metropolitan Trading Company (MTC), seeks to enhance digital accessibility across the city.

MTC’s general manager of network operations, Neani Mulaudzi, said the initiative will allow commuters to stay connected while waiting for buses.

“Passengers can access emails, work remotely, or attend virtual meetings. They can also stream music, watch videos, or browse social media,” said Mulaudzi.

Students can also use the service for research and online learning, further integrating digital tools into daily life.

Transport MMC Kenny Kunene highlighted that the project aligns with Johannesburg’s goal of becoming a digitised, world-class African city.

“Mobile data is expensive in South Africa, and this initiative ensures more people can access the Internet for communication, work, and research,” Kunene said.

The rollout will take place in phases, with a formal launch set for full implementation.

Johannesburg has previously attempted to implement free broadband services, but past projects have been plagued by financial mismanagement and corruption.

In 2010, the city launched a broadband initiative that later collapsed. Former Mayor Herman Mashaba revealed in 2018 that the project cost R2.3 billion, yet failed due to poor management.

Other South African cities have also struggled. Stellenbosch introduced a free Wi-Fi project in 2012, but it fell apart due to stakeholder disagreements. Meanwhile, Tshwane’s free Wi-Fi program, launched in 2013, was declared financially irregular, with costs reaching R320 million by 2017.

Unlike past projects, Johannesburg’s new Wi-Fi rollout is linked to existing transport infrastructure, which could improve its long-term viability. The city hopes that by integrating free Internet access with Rea Vaya, it will provide a reliable service that benefits both daily commuters and the broader digital economy.

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