By localnew 
Santaco to Roll Out Free Wi-Fi to 50,000 Taxis in Major Digital Expansion
Johannesburg — The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) has unveiled an ambitious plan to install free Wi-Fi in 50,000 taxis across the country over the next 24 months, in partnership with free Wi-Fi platform Sebenza.
The initiative aims to modernise South Africa’s taxi industry while expanding digital access for the millions of commuters who rely on taxis as their primary mode of transport. According to Santaco, the project is part of a broader strategy to integrate technology into public transport and reduce the digital divide.
The announcement was made on Thursday during an immersion session in Bryanston, attended by the minister of communications and digital technologies, Solly Malatsi, along with key stakeholders and Sebenza staff. Guests were taken on a demonstration ride in a Wi-Fi–enabled minibus taxi, showcasing real-time connectivity. The event also featured a live router installation at the Randburg taxi rank, illustrating how the technology will be deployed nationwide.
Sebenza’s platform will enable commuters to access high-speed internet at no cost, opening opportunities for online learning, communication, entertainment, and digital transactions while on the move.
Santaco said the rollout marks a significant step toward transforming the taxi industry into a more efficient, connected, and commuter-friendly transport system.