Public transport: news, tips and what matters in Africa

When buses stop or trains delay, a whole city feels it. Public transport on the continent moves millions every day, and small changes — a power cut, a fare hike, or a new ticket app — can ripple fast. On this tag page we track news, practical tips and the policies that shape your commute.

Recent stories matter: rolling load-shedding can stop trains and delay buses, while telecom deals that boost mobile coverage make ticketing apps and real-time updates reliable. Economic shifts like currency swings change fuel and fare costs overnight. We flag reports that affect your daily ride so you can plan better.

What to watch in transport news

Policy shifts: new rules on fares, subsidies or paratransit licensing can change who runs routes and how much you pay. Infrastructure: look for rail upgrades, bus rapid transit launches and road works that reroute services. Tech and coverage: mobile roaming and network deals mean better apps, live maps and contactless payments. Energy and costs: power outages and fuel price moves affect schedules and ticket prices. Safety alerts: strikes, accidents or security notices can require instant plan changes.

Smart commuter tips

Check official channels before you leave: operator Twitter/X feeds, station boards or the transport app. If you rely on electric trains or ticket machines, plan for power cuts—carry some cash and screenshots of tickets. Use offline maps and save key routes as favourites. Avoid peak crowding when possible, and if a route looks blocked, pick a different corridor early. Keep a portable charger and share real-time updates with friends if you face long delays. For safety, sit near the driver or in well-lit carriages and report suspicious activity to staff.

We highlight stories that actually change your commute — like telecom deals that expand mobile coverage for ticketing apps, power warnings that threaten schedules, and economic moves that push fares up. Recent posts on this tag include coverage of network roaming deals, load-shedding alerts and exchange-rate shifts that matter to transport operators. Bookmark this tag for daily updates and quick explanations when news breaks.

Quick checklist before you head out: update your transport app, screenshot tickets, carry small cash, pack a charger, pick an alternative route, and follow local operator updates. Want alerts? Subscribe to this tag or follow our transport feed for short, clear updates you can act on.

You can influence how public transport improves. Report repeated delays and safety issues to operators and local transport authorities — repeated complaints create records that push for fixes. Use social media to share photos and times; many agencies now react faster when passengers document problems. Support fare transparency by asking for clear breakdowns when prices rise. If you're part of a community group, push for better shelters, lighting and route maps — local campaigns often result in small, fast wins. For longer fixes like rail upgrades or BRT systems, follow planning updates and public consultations so your voice shows up during decision moments. Stay informed, travel safer, and save time.