BuuPass stands as a testament to the transformative power of digital solutions in the transport sector, offering a seamless and comprehensive online ticketing platform. The platform, championed by its users as a game-changer, has revolutionized the way passengers engage with public transportation in Kenya. By providing a convenient avenue for booking tickets and managing travel plans from the comfort of a smartphone, BuuPass has not only simplified the passenger experience but has also empowered bus operators with efficient management tools.
BuuPass’s innovative approach is driving the transport industry towards a more digitally connected future, ultimately reshaping the way Kenyans travel and interact with public transportation systems. At an event organized by Buupass and other players in the transport industry last week, here were the sentiments from those who have worked extensively with the company.
“One of the key things that Safaricom has done is to drive the use of cashless methods in terms of collecting revenue in the transport industry, more specifically in the bus industry. For the bus industry, we have integrated our M-Pesa systems such that one can book a ticket online and make a purchase immediately. We are also working on initiatives to enhance business analytics solutions for bus operators, and also providing IoT solutions that help to manage fleets, abide by policies by regulators and government, and also check on fuel efficiency” – Neddy Munyasi, Commercial Vertical Lead – Multinational Corporations – Safaricom.
“It’s a good idea for the government to come in and control fare prices. However, cost consideration also needs to be factored in in such a way that all parties benefit – common mwananchi and bus operators alike ”- Twalib Abubakar, ICOAK Chairman
“We are regulated by standards which give the minimum structural requirements for a bus body, and this is important for saving human lives on the road. Though the government has tried to improve the road infrastructure, it’s still not ready to bring on lighter buses with lighter frames. We want all buses to be safe for consumers to save lives on our roads” Bobby Virdee, CEO – Masters Fabricators
“Since we started using the online ticketing platform by BuuPass, our business has been very easy, especially on the management side. I just need my phone to monitor operations from any part of the country I’m in. Record keeping is also very easy as it enables one get manifests easily, track staff, drivers and also income and expenditure. Now that I’m using BuuPass, my operations are so easy – for example, I don’t need to have an IT Department. For anyone in the transport industry, digital is the way to go as it simplifies multiple operations while saving time ” – Lazarus Thuo, Director – Greenline Safaris
“Some of the interventions that we have put in place include a focus on data analytics. For example, if you know where your bus is, who is driving it, and whether they are a good or bad driver, then you will be able to estimate the cost of maintenance for that bus. People who are employing technology combined by data analytics are able to cut costs to an estimate of 30%. Other initiatives we are looking at include making speed limiters more intelligent and more of a data-analytics based device, to increase safety on the road. We are looking at monitoring speed on roads from a more dynamic perspective” – Nashon Kondiwa, Director ICT and Innovation – NTSA
