Digital access boosted at Randburg Taxi Rank
Free Wi-Fi in minibus taxis was showcased at the Randburg Taxi Rank, offering local commuters better connectivity during daily travel as part of a wider national rollout.
Daily taxi commuters in Randburg could soon enjoy easier and cheaper access to the internet following the launch of a new free Wi-Fi service aimed at public transport users.
The initiative was unveiled at the Sebenza offices in Bryanston and moved to the Randburg Taxi Rank, where a live demonstration showed how Wi-Fi routers are installed inside minibus taxis. The project forms part of a wider partnership between Sebenza and the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO), which plans to roll out connectivity to 50,000 taxis nationally over the next 24 months.
Read more: Taxi ranks get free WiFi
For Randburg commuters, the focus is on making time spent travelling more useful. During the demonstration at the rank, passengers shared how access to Wi-Fi helps them stay connected to work, studies and small businesses, especially as data costs remain high.
The launch included a short commute from Bryanston to the Randburg Taxi Rank in a Wi-Fi-enabled taxi, giving guests a first-hand look at how the service works. Technicians then demonstrated real-time installation at the rank, showing how quickly taxis can be connected.
Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Solly Malatsi, highlighted the importance of such projects in everyday spaces like taxi ranks. He said access to digital services is critical as technology continues to shape the economy and daily life.
Photo: Nkazimulo Ncube
Also read: Gauteng taxis to offer free WiFi for passengers
“Digital inclusion is about making sure people can take part in the economy, no matter where they are,” Malatsi said, adding that practical projects show real progress rather than just policy promises.
Randburg is home to a large number of students, informal traders and small business owners who rely on taxis daily. Many commuters say the taxi ride is often the only time they can access Wi-Fi without extra cost. A young student and aspiring entrepreneur explained that unemployment and expensive data make free, in-transit connectivity especially valuable.
@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Umsizi Msweli installs a Wi-Fi router inside a minibus taxi at the Randburg Taxi Rank as part of Sebenza’s in-transit connectivity rollout. Video: Nkazimulo Ncube #Wifi #Randburg ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North
Sebenza says usage of its in-taxi Wi-Fi platform has grown steadily. The company reports that users increased from 5.3 million in 2024 to 7 million in 2025, with commuters spending an average of 10 to 15 minutes online per trip. This shows strong engagement, particularly on busy routes like those passing through Randburg.
Sebenza CEO Wesley Dorning said the partnership with SANTACO will help expand the service faster. “We aim to grow our presence while creating more value for commuters and businesses,” he said.
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