​The City of Johannesburg has launched free high-speed Wi-Fi services at 35 Rea Vaya bus stations, enhancing digital accessibility for commuters. This initiative, managed by the Metropolitan Trading Company (MTC), aims to provide seamless internet connectivity, allowing passengers to work, study, or entertain themselves while waiting for buses.

Passengers can connect to the “Joburg Free Wi-Fi” network at these stations, enabling activities such as checking emails, attending virtual meetings, streaming music, and browsing social media.  This news was announced during the project’s launch event at the Soccer City Rea Vaya station.

“In the spirit of global collaboration reflected in the G20, Johannesburg is bridging the digital divide,”

said Johannesburg Mayoral Committee Member for Transport Kenny Kunene.

“This initiative is about more than just internet access; it’s about building an inclusive and smart city where every commuter has the tools to thrive in the 21st century.

“It aligns with our vision of a modern, interconnected Johannesburg that empowers its people,” Kunene added.

The project aims to allow commuters to maximise their time while waiting for buses, according to the MTC’s general manager of network operations, Neani Mulaudzi.

“Passengers can also stream music, watch videos, or browse social media while waiting to board a bus.”

Despite the progress, challenges such as infrastructure vandalism and inconsistent electricity supply have been encountered. Mulaudzi urged the community to protect these facilities, emphasizing their collective benefit. Kunene also noted that the high cost of mobile data in South Africa makes this free Wi-Fi service a valuable resource for students, job seekers, and small businesses.

Johannesburg free Wi-Fi

The Metropolitan Trading Company (MTC), in charge of Johannesburg’s broadband and ICT infrastructure, is overseeing the rollout of the “high-speed Internet” project.

The rollout is part of Johannesburg‘s broader digital rehabilitation program, with plans to expand coverage to additional public transport nodes, community centers, libraries, and government offices. The long-term objective is to establish a citywide, high-speed public Wi-Fi network that caters to all residents.

“MTC is proud to deliver this essential service to Joburg’s commuters,” said CEO Thedi Moropa.

“We are committed to leveraging technology to improve the urban experience, and this rollout is a testament to that commitment. It’s about making Johannesburg a more liveable, efficient, and connected City for all.”

The municipal entity says it will monitor network performance and user feedback for optimal service delivery and continuous improvements.

South Africa’s Struggle with Free Broadband Initiatives

Across South Africa, municipalities have poured billions into ambitious free broadband projects, but many have faced significant challenges.

In 2010, Johannesburg launched a citywide broadband initiative to enhance service delivery and expand affordable internet access. However, former mayor Herman Mashaba later revealed that the project was marred by corruption. The city terminated its 12-year build-operate-transfer (BOT) contract just four years in, repurchasing the network for R2.3 billion—despite lacking the expertise to manage it.

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Stellenbosch attempted a similar initiative in 2012 under then-mayor Conrad Sidego. Partnering with Mxit and Stellenbosch University, the project promised free Internet access for all. However, it quickly unraveled as stakeholders disagreed on the way forward, and Mxit—key to providing free bandwidth—pulled out.

In 2013, Tshwane launched its own free Wi-Fi program in partnership with Project Isizwe. By 2017, the Auditor General flagged R180 million in spending as “unlawful and irregular.” The project, initially funded under a municipal finance provision meant for non-profits, had ballooned to R320 million, with costs reaching an estimated R302,000 per site.

While free broadband remains a goal for many cities, these setbacks highlight the complexities of funding, governance, and sustainability in large-scale public connectivity projects.