• Rea Vaya bus stations and buses now have free WiFi thanks to the City of Johannesburg.
• There are now 35 stations across the city that are allowing commuters to access the internet.
• City of Johannesburg says that more bus stations are on the way and that it will monitor user feedback of the system.

The City of Johannesburg has announced that the free public WiFi hotspots across Rea Vaya bus stations in the city are now online, as of 31st March 2025 at a launch event held at the Soccer City Rea Vaya station, together with Rea Vaya operator the Metropolitan Trading Company (MTC).

Commuters of the public bus system can now access the WiFi on their smartphones, laptops or tablets free of charge using the WiFi named “Joburg Free Wi-Fi.” Aside from being accessible at stations, the WiFi is also available while commuting on the Rea Vaya buses.

“Commuters can access emails, work remotely, or attend virtual meetings, effectively extending their workday. Passengers can also stream music, watch videos, or browse social media while waiting to board a bus,” Neani Mulaudzi, MTC’s General Manager of Network Operations at City of Joburg, explained in February.

So far, the City says that 35 Rea Vaya bus stations are now online, and a “further expansion is planned.” It is believed that there are 58 stations for the brand across Johannesburg, so that means that just over 60 percent of the bus route now has free WiFi connectivity available.

“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,” enthused MMC for Transport, Kenny Kunene.

“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,” added MTC CEO Thedi Moropa.

Now, the MTC says that it will be monitoring network performance and user feedback to ensure “optimal service delivery and continuous improvements.” The launch of the free WiFi comes close to a year after Rea Vaya hiked its prices.

Important usage information, like what the download speed of the WiFi is and if the line has a fair usage policy or not, both of which determine what exactly the line could be used for, has yet to be revealed.

[Image – Photo by Click PhotographyStudio on Unsplash]