Public transport is the lifeblood of cities in many countries, moving millions daily to work, school and essential services. But paying for it in cash is not efficient. Long queues, fare disputes, revenue leakage, and increased operational costs plague cash-based transport systems.
Contactless payment technologies, where commuters tap a card or mobile device, offer a potential solution. These are in wide use in developed nations, but adoption in developing economies has been slower and more complex. Infrastructure limitations, financial exclusion and consumer scepticism have been challenges. So is the integration of informal transport sectors.
Some cities, however, have decided to modernise their transport systems. For instance, Lagos in Nigeria introduced the Cowry card in 2020, aiming to replace cash on public buses. Kigali in Rwanda uses the Tap&Go card for cashless travel, with top-ups via app or agents. Cape Town in South Africa has the MyCiTi card, streamlining payments and reducing queuing.
