12 Nov 2026

A new six-month pilot of the electric TANA Metro bus service could transform Gaborone’s transport landscape into a win-win for both weary commuters and struggling taxi operators, according to Transport and Infrastructure Minister, Mr Keoagile Atamelang.

Speaking on the sidelines of Parliament, Minister Atamelang expressed optimism about the ongoing trial, noting that a clearer picture of the projects viability would emerge at the end of the six-month pilot period. 

He emphasised that significant stakes were involved in transforming the city’s transport landscape. Currently, the transport sector is plagued by unreliable, unsafe and inefficient services. Because standards remain inconsistent, many residents are reluctant to use public transport.

“We wanted to see how best we can improve public transport. All of us here don’t use public transport, or we are not confident about it, because it is not efficient or safe and the standards are inconsistent,” he said.

He highlighted that commuters deserved comfortable travel options equipped with amenities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi. Addressing the struggling taxi industry, Mr Atamelang noted that financial pressure often led to higher commuter fares. 

“Just recently, we received a letter from them requesting a fare adjustment,” he said.

However, he argued that raising combi and taxi fares was not a sustainable solution. Operators on routes like Naledi and parts of Broadhurst have avoided raising prices recently, recognising the financial impact on passengers.

“All of our working people deserve to arrive at work on time so that we can grow this economy,” he added.

The minister assured operators that the new service was not designed to create unemployment. Instead, he said TANA Metro offered existing operators an opportunity to hold a stake in the venture. He also pointed out systemic issues in the current sector, where many combi drivers lacked formal employment contracts, work under difficult conditions and were paid on a daily basis. Paired with the poor condition of many vehicles on the road, these issues underscore the need for urgent reform. 

Furthermore, strikes by transport operators historically cripple the economy due to lack of travel alternatives for workers.

“Should we work like that as a country? No,” Mr Atamelang stated, confirming that consultations with public transport operators were ongoing.

While acknowledging that some operators had raised concerns, he emphasised that the pilot project remained work in progress and no stakeholders were being excluded. Routes for the trial were mapped out during initial engagements and adjustments would be made as the pilot progresses.

“This is done with the intent to make Botswana great,” he said.

The TANA Metro bus service, which operates electric buses, recently launched as a pilot project offering free rides along routes connecting Tlokweng, Phakalane, Metsimotlhabe and Game City. ENDS