News 2025
GAUTRAIN EXTENDS MIDIBUS SERVICE ROUTES IN STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH TAXI INDUSTRY
17 July 2025
The Gautrain, in partnership with minibus taxi operators, is launching three new Gautrain Midibus Feeder and Distribution Service routes to Parkhurst, Summerset, and Halfway Gardens.
To create awareness and encourage usage, Gautrain will provide complimentary trips on the three newly launched routes for a limited time. Complimentary trips on the Rosebank Station to Parkhurst route will be available from 17 to 25 July 2025, while complimentary trips on the Midrand Station to Summerset and Halfway Gardens routes will run from 21 to 25 July 2025. Thereafter, passengers can use the Midibus Service by purchasing a ticket at an affordable R13 per trip. Midibus tickets can only be purchased at the departing Gautrain station, cash payments are not accepted. The service is currently only available during weekdays.
As part of the partnership, Gautrain transfers critical skills to its partners (i.e. taxi associations), supporting their continued growth in professionalism and service excellence. All drivers wear the official Gautrain uniform and receive comprehensive training in advanced and defensive driving, health and safety protocols, and customer service excellence. To ensure ongoing excellence, refresher courses are conducted annually.
The new routes are operated in partnership with Faraday Investment Holdings (FIH) and IPTA Gautrain Feeder Services (IGFS), which are entities of Faraday Taxi Association and Ivory Park Taxi Association respectively. Speaking about the newly launched Midrand routes, Mathews Mothotse, a representative of IPTA Gautrain Feeder Services (IGFS), described the initiative as a significant step towards integrated public transport. “We are excited about the launch of the long-awaited Midrand routes to Summerset and Halfway Gardens. This initiative will not only serve the community but also help feed many families. Our drivers are a good mix of youth, women and men who will transport commuters with professionalism and pride.”
Patrick Sifundza, a representative of Faraday Investment Holdings (FIH), the taxi association operating the Parkhurst route from Rosebank Station, described the partnership as the first step towards modernising and transforming the taxi industry at large. “We wish to emphasise that we are committed to ensuring that this project becomes a success and gains greater support from the community,” Sifundza said.
The Gautrain Midibus Feeder and Distribution Service addresses a number of issues, including enhancing the integration of the Gautrain system with other public transport services within the Province, improving accessibility to Gautrain stations, and reducing traffic congestion to the stations. With the launch of the new routes, the fleet now consists of 47 midibuses and two minibus (including wheelchair-accessible vehicles). “The Gautrain midibuses transport more than 78 000 commuters each month. The service has challenged the notion that the taxi industry cannot deliver scheduled, safe, and reliable services,” said Gautrain Management Agency Chief Executive Officer, Tshepo Kgobe.
Launched in 2011 and initially operating from Marlboro Station in partnership with Alexandra Transport Solutions (ATS), the Gautrain Midibus Service was later extended to include Centurion and Hatfield in partnership with Tshwane Taxi Industry (TTI) Shuttle Services. According to Kgobe, “the extension of the Midibus Service to Rosebank and Midrand Stations further reinforces Gautrain’s commitment to seamless integration across multiple modes of public transport through strong and mutually beneficial partnerships. Through the Midibus Feeder and Distribution Service, we have successfully created employment opportunities for 122 people, including 41 women and 37 youth,” said Kgobe.
Kgobe added that a dedicated driver rest facility is being constructed at Marlboro Station to accommodate the growing team of drivers and further enhance their comfort and wellbeing. Through our growing partnership with taxi operators, we are driving economic development and job creation by delivering efficient and reliable public transport services,” Kgobe concluded.
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Contact:
Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za
Follow Gautrain on:
•X (formerly known as Twitter) - @TheGautrain
•Facebook –
www.facebook.com/gautrain
•Instagram - @TheGautrain
•Website –
www.gautrain.co.za
•Call Centre – 0800 42887246
•SMS alert line – 32693
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GAUTRAIN MARKS 15 YEARS OF OPERATIONS AND RAMPS UP EFFORTS TO BE MORE ACCESSIBLE
08 June 2025
Fifteen years ago on this day (08 June 2010), the first Gautrain ride left Sandton Station for O.R. Tambo Station. Fifteen years on, South Africa’s first and only rapid rail network renowned for its efficiency, safety and convenience, is still on track and ramping up efforts to be more accessible.
Since its launch in 2010, the Gautrain project has successfully completed over 200 million passenger trips and employs approximately 1200 staff across operations and administration of the project. “In the next 15 years, we want to connect more people, more communities, and more cities in Gauteng, and stimulate economic growth, development, and job creation. As we mark 15 years of operations, we are mindful that accessibility and inclusivity is an imperative. To this end, we recently launched the KlevaMova Product which offers low-income earners a 50% discount on Gautrain train fares,” said Gautrain Management Agency CEO, Tshepo Kgobe.
Kgobe explained that KlevaMova will make the Gautrain more affordable for low-income and disadvantaged communities located on the periphery of cities and spending a significant portion of their income on commuting. The product caters for households with a combined household annual income of R350 000 or less, pensioners, and recipients of the South African Social Security Agency’s (SASSA) disability grant. “A month after the launch of KlevaMova, we are pleased that approximately 2000 eligible passengers have registered for the product and over 1000 applications were approved following a verification process,” said Kgobe.
Scholars and students under the age of 25 also qualify for the 50% discount on Gautrain train fares. “As we mark Youth Month, we understand that safe and reliable transport enables learners to reach school safely and on time, minimising disruptions to their education. We are therefore positioning the Gautrain as the mobility of choice supporting young people's transition into adulthood, enabling them to access education and opportunities,” Kgobe indicated.
In many cities, transportation acts as a key driver for economic and social development, facilitating trade, improving accessibility, and creating opportunities for growth. Gauteng, the economic powerhouse of South Africa, experiences significant road traffic congestion and continues to draw people from all over the world and all over the country. “An efficient public transport system such as the Gautrain is central to the swift movement of people from one end of the province to the other,” said Kgobe.
“The role of the Gautrain as a catalyst for economic development cannot be minimised,” Kgobe said. Over the last 15 years, the positive multiplier effects of the Gautrain includes stimulating commercial and residential property development around the stations. “We have seen a significant proportion of commercial and residential properties mushrooming around Gautrain stations,” Kgobe indicated.
Kgobe added that the Gautrain’s 15 years of impact serves as a compelling argument for the proposed rapid rail extensions to areas such as Soweto, Fourways, Lanseria, and Mamelodi which is at the heart of government’s efforts to reverse the spatial inequalities left by apartheid, while ensuring inclusive connectivity. These proposed extensions are a key component of the 25-Year Integrated Transport Master Plan, which envisions a passenger rail network as the backbone of the province's modernised and integrated transport system.
Gauteng is the economic powerhouse of South Africa and when Gauteng grows, South Africa grows. The province, the smallest of the nine provinces, has an ever-increasing population whose mobility needs must be met, despite the congestion on our roads. This traffic congestion hinders not only mobility but affects our ability to grow our province. “We need to act now to move people from road to rail, particularly in congested areas like the Johannesburg-Pretoria corridor,” said Kgobe.
“The story of the Gautrain is interwoven into the growth of Gauteng, as the province grows, we strive to transport more people from all backgrounds and walks of life and in every corner of the province to places of work, leisure, business, or school. Fifteen years on, we pause to reflect on the journey we have travelled and the strides we have made, but also cast our eyes to a future where we can comprehensively address the transport needs of a diverse range of passengers and advance equity in transportation,” Kgobe concluded.
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Contact:
Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za
Follow Gautrain on:
•Twitter - @TheGautrain
•Facebook –
www.facebook.com/gautrain
•Instagram - @TheGautrain
•Website –
www.gautrain.co.za
•Call Centre – 0800 42887246
•SMS alert line – 32693
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THIS WEEKEND, ELIGIBLE GAUTENG RESIDENTS CAN ENJOY FREE TRAVEL ON THE GAUTRAIN AND SIGN-UP FOR A 50% TRAIN DISCOUNT PRODUCT
19 May 2025
The Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has urged eligible Gauteng residents to sign-up for the newly launched KlevaMova Product which offers a 50% discount on Gautrain train fares. The Gautrain recently announced the special product which caters for individuals living in households with a combined household annual income of R350 000 or less, students under the age of 25, scholars, pensioners, and recipients of the South African Social Security Agency’s (SASSA) disability grant.
“We are building a Gauteng that embraces all its communities, irrespective of their status in life. We want Gauteng to be connected and accessible, thereby allowing our residents access to opportunities they deserve while catalysing inclusive economic growth. I would like to encourage qualifying individuals to register for KlevaMova and experience an efficient, safe, and convenient public transport service. The Gautrain is opening its doors this weekend, 24 and 25 May 2025, and allowing pre-registered customers free travel on the train,” said MEC Diale-Tlabela.
The free weekend special will allow an eligible individual to bring along up to three guests for this exclusive offer. Seats are limited, so individuals who wish to take-up the free travel offer must register at klevamovaweekend.gautrainalerts.co.za by no later than 21 May 2025.
Upon arrival at a Gautrain station on 24 and 25 May, eligible passengers will be received by a promoter who will verify that they are registered for the free travel promotion and issue them and their guests with a wristband which will allow them seamless free travel on the Gautrain for the day. In addition, the promoters will assist customers who wish to register for the KlevaMova 50% off train fare discount. “Eligible passengers do not only get to explore Gautrain for free on 24 and 25 May 2025, but also get an opportunity to sign-up for a product that will reduce their day-to-day train travel costs to work, school, or other destinations in the province,” MEC Diale-Tlabela continued.
The Gautrain’s KlevaMova product offers eligible passengers a 50% discount on train fares only, available as Weekly, Monthly and return trip products. To qualify for the discount, interested individuals must apply by submitting relevant documentation, and are subject to an approval and verification process.
For more information on this product, members of the public may contact the Gautrain on toll-free number 0800 428 87246 (0800 GAUTRAIN), daily from 05h30 to 20h00, visit www.gautrain.co.za, or visit a Gautrain station (excluding OR Tambo) Monday to Saturday between 08h00 and 17h00.
“If you qualify, register and hop on the Gautrain for free this weekend. Experience this world-class public transport service and sign-up for the 50% off train discount product. Affordable public transport is not a luxury, but a fundamental service as it gives residents the opportunity to better access jobs and social activities, which then increases a city’s economic activity,” MEC Diale Tlabela concluded.
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Issued by the Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport jointly with the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA).
Contact:
Lesiba Mpya
Spokesperson for the MEC for Transport and Logistics
Leseba.Mpya@gauteng.gov.za
Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za
Follow Gautrain on:
•Twitter - @TheGautrain
•Facebook –
www.facebook.com/gautrain
•Instagram - @TheGautrain
•Website –
www.gautrain.co.za
•Call Centre – 0800 42887246
•SMS alert line – 32693
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USING THE GAUTRAIN JUST GOT MORE AFFORDABLE WITH THE LAUNCH OF THE KLEVAMOVA PRODUCT
06 May 2025
The Gautrain has launched KlevaMova, a special product offering a 50% discount on train trips to individuals living in households with a combined household annual income of R350 000 or less, students under the age of 25, scholars, pensioners, and recipients of the South African Social Security Agency’s (SASSA) disability grant.
The cost of transport remains one of the highest cost items for many households, particularly for households located on the periphery of cities, far from economic hubs. This was confirmed by the Gauteng Household Travel Survey which found that nearly 60% of households spent more than 10% of their income on public transport in 2019/20, up from 55% in 2014.
“I am pleased to announce that the Gautrain train fares will now be more affordable,” said the Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela. She added that, affordable and accessible public transport is crucial for reducing the cost of living for many South Africans, as it significantly impacts household budgets and access to opportunities. “As a result of South Africa’s historical spatial planning, many people live far from work and opportunities and are faced with high transport costs,” said Diale-Tlabela.
“KlevaMova forms part of Government’s efforts to make the Gautrain more accessible to a large share of the population in Gauteng, attract a diverse range of passengers across income groups, and ensure that cost is not a barrier to accessing an efficient, safe, and convenient public transport service,” Diale-Tlabela indicated. The MEC also urged corporates to encourage their qualifying employees to take advantage of the KlevaMova product.
KlevaMova offers eligible customers a 50% discount on Gautrain train fares only, available as Weekly, Monthly and return trip products. To qualify for the discount, interested individuals must apply by submitting relevant documentation, and are subject to an approval and verification process.
For more information on this product, members of the public may contact the Gautrain on toll-free number 0800 428 87246 (0800 GAUTRAIN), daily from 05h30 to 20h00, visit www.gautrain.co.za, or visit a Gautrain station (excluding OR Tambo) Monday to Saturday between 08h00 and 17h00.
In addition to the KlevaMova 50% discount product, the Gautrain announced a significant reduction in parking fares. All passengers may park at a Gautrain station for just R1 a day when they ride the train from 1 April to 31 July 2025.
“Gauteng’s 25-Year Integrated Transport Master Plan (ITMP25) prioritises a passenger rail network as the backbone of the province's modernised and integrated transport system. Taking more people off the roads will indeed bring numerous benefits including less road congestion, road accidents, and harmful carbon dioxide emissions,” said MEC Diale-Tlabela.
With the launch of KlevaMova, diverse people across income groups will be able to access an efficient public transport service and improve their commuting experience, reduce commute-related stress, and enhance their overall quality of life.
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Issued by the Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport jointly with the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA).
Contact:
Lesiba Mpya
Spokesperson for the MEC for Transport and Logistics
Leseba.Mpya@gauteng.gov.za
Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za
Follow Gautrain on:
•Twitter - @TheGautrain
•Facebook –
www.facebook.com/gautrain
•Instagram - @TheGautrain
•Website –
www.gautrain.co.za
•Call Centre – 0800 42887246
•SMS alert line – 32693
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GAUTRAIN SERVICE FOR HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SAAF MUSEUM AIR SHOW IN PRETORIA
29 April 2025
The Gautrain is offering a complimentary midibus shuttle service from Centurion Station to the much-anticipated Annual South African Air Force (SAAF) Museum Air Show taking place on Saturday, 03 May 2025, at Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing (former Air Force Base Swartkop).
The Air Show will feature spectacular air displays that are sure to wow aviation enthusiasts and families. The complimentary midibus shuttle service is available only on 03 May 2025 from Gautrain Centurion Station, between 06:00 and 19:00, to individuals with valid printed or digital Air Show tickets. Standard Gautrain train and parking fares apply. SAAF Museum Air Show tickets can be purchased on Computicket.
“We are proud to once again be the official transport partner for this epic Air Show and encourage event-goers to use the Gautrain for a seamless travel experience,” said Tshepo Kgobe, Gautrain Management Agency CEO.” The Air Show promises to be a thrilling exploration of the shared legacy of South African aviation history under the theme, “Wings of Legacy – Advancing Towards Space and Future Frontiers.”
Leading up to the Air Show, the Gautrain will race SAAF’s Alouette II helicopter on 30 April 2025 from Gautrain Midrand Station to Centurion Station. The race will at start at 07:00am. “This curtain racer event is always fun and involves a degree of friendly rivalry between rail and air,” Kgobe said.
At the Gautrain we pride ourselves in offering an efficient, safe, and a reliable public transport service to various destinations, including large-scale social events in Gauteng such as the Air Show, Kgobe concluded.
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Contact:
Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za
Follow Gautrain on:
•Twitter - @TheGautrain
•Facebook –
www.facebook.com/gautrain
•Instagram - @TheGautrain
•Website –
www.gautrain.co.za
•Call Centre – 0800 42887246
•SMS alert line – 32693
__________________________________________________________________________________
GAUTRAIN’S RESPONSE TO CHANGING RIDERSHIP PATTERNS IS ADAPTION
27 March 2025
In response to the changing ridership patterns post-COVID-19, the Gautrain is identifying underserved customer groups and their specific needs, and will be adapting its products and services to make travel more accessible for a diverse range of passengers.
The pandemic has drastically and permanently altered the transit industry. Former frequent commuters continue to work from home in hybrid or remote positions. “The days of a predictable 9-to-5, Monday through Friday commute are over. Passengers are demanding that we run a frequent service throughout the day and offer dynamic pricing to suit their hybrid work schedules. And with the rising cost of living, cost is increasingly becoming the sole determinant when choosing a mode of transport,” said Gautrain Management Agency CEO, Tshepo Kgobe.
Across the world, rail operators continue to adjust to changing ridership patterns by adapting their service offerings accordingly.
According to Kgobe, the Gautrain recently commissioned a brand study, which found that the rapid rail link has maintained its brand positioning as a safe, efficient, clean, and convenient service. However, there is an indication that the brand is perceived as inaccessible to some market segments. “This presents an opportunity to respond innovatively to changing customer needs, preferences and patterns,” Kgobe indicated.
In November 2023, the Gautrain kick-started the process to appoint a new delivery partner who will operate, maintain, modernise, innovate, and upgrade the Gautrain system when the current Gautrain concession agreement comes to an end in March 2026. “A new Public-Private Partnership agreement presents an opportunity to rethink the Gautrain business model, ensuring financial sustainability and operational excellence. Under the new agreement, we will be able to consider a range of fare policies and pricing incentives, introduce products and services that address the needs of a diverse range of passengers, and advance equity in transportation,” Kgobe highlighted.
Kgobe added that “public transport systems such as the Gautrain should indeed be inclusive, ensuring accessibility and ease of movement for diverse market segments. We are resilient and adaptable, this is an opportune time to rethink, redesign, renew, and build on a highly functional, world-class system.”
Gauteng, South Africa's most populous province, faces significant road congestion due to high traffic volumes and a rapidly growing population, impacting economic activity and daily commutes. As cities continue to grow, the demand for reliable and accessible transportation options becomes increasingly important. The Gautrain rapid rail link, and the extension of the rail network in Gauteng, is key to addressing road congestion, and offering a faster, more efficient, and sustainable alternative to private vehicles.
“The rapid rail extensions from current Gautrain stations, mostly in the suburbs, to other economic nodes and townships like Soweto and Mamelodi, will significantly increase our customer base, boost ridership, and enable inclusive transport connectivity,” said Kgobe.
Like most rail companies across the world, the Gautrain Management Agency has recognised the need to innovate and diversify its revenue streams. “As part of the diversification strategy, we have already introduced vehicle licensing services at Gautrain stations, and we will be transforming Gautrain stations into hubs for business, retail, and social activities. Gauteng, with its diverse attractions, is also an entertainment playground, so we are striving to position the Gautrain as the mobility of choice for large-scale social, sport and lifestyle events, and places of fun and entertainment,” Kgobe concluded.
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Contact:
Albi Modise
Gautrain Management Agency, Senior Executive Manager: Communication and Marketing
albim@gautrain.co.za
Follow Gautrain on:
•Twitter - @TheGautrain
•Facebook –
www.facebook.com/gautrain
•Instagram - @TheGautrain
•Website –
www.gautrain.co.za
•Call Centre – 0800 42887246
•SMS alert line – 32693
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