Commuters in Giyani may soon be able to tap and go when boarding buses, following the successful testing of an automated fare collection (AFC) system on Great North Transport buses at the Giyani depot. The pilot project marks a significant step toward modernising public transport in Limpopo, replacing cash transactions with digital, card-based payments on provincial routes.
The AFC system is designed to streamline boarding, reduce the risks associated with carrying cash, and improve revenue management for the transport operator. For commuters, the shift promises greater convenience and security, while for Great North Transport, it offers better tracking of passenger numbers and fare income—data that can be used to improve route planning and service delivery.
Officials involved in the test described it as a milestone in the province’s efforts to embrace digital transformation in the transport sector. “This is about bringing our bus services into the modern era,” one official said. “Tap-and-go is faster, safer, and more efficient for everyone.”
The pilot phase will allow the operator to iron out technical issues and gather feedback from drivers and passengers before a wider rollout. If successful, the system could be extended to other depots and routes across Limpopo, positioning Great North Transport as a leader in smart mobility in the region.
For Giyani residents, many of whom rely on buses for daily commuting, the move is a welcome development. Cash has long been the only option on most provincial routes, creating challenges around change, safety, and record-keeping. The introduction of AFC technology could be a game-changer, particularly for students, workers, and the elderly who depend on affordable, reliable transport.
As the testing phase concludes and plans for a broader rollout take shape, the message from Giyani is clear: public transport in Limpopo is going digital, one tap at a time.
About The Author
