City of Windhoek Launches New Cashless Bus Ticketing System to Improve Travel Efficiency

City of Windhoek Launches New Cashless Bus Ticketing System to Improve Travel Efficiency. In a move aimed at modernising public transport, the City of Windhoek has officially launched a new Cashless Bus Ticketing System, which will take effect on 11 August 2025. The new system is part of the city’s effort to improve passenger convenience, operational efficiency, and overall travel safety across its municipal bus service.

From 4 to 10 August 2025, commuters are encouraged to visit the Municipal Bus Depot in the Southern Industrial Area, Paterson Street, to verify their old bus cards and transfer any remaining balances to new smartcards. The transfer service will remain available until 15 August 2025.

As part of the transition, all cash payments and old bus cards will be discontinued from 11 August. Only the new smartcards will be accepted on municipal buses going forward.

Key Highlights of the Rollout:New smartcards will be issued for free from 4–10 August 2025.A mandatory N$50 top-up is required for first-time use.Replacement smartcards cost N$78.00.Top-up values range from a minimum of N$5.00 to a maximum of N$2,500.00.

Commuters must present one of the following documents to register for a new card:

• Valid ID
• Birth certificate (for school learners)
• Passport (for foreign nationals)

Smartcards can be topped up at designated locations including Townhouse / Head Office, Katutura Customer Care Centre, Wanaheda Municipality, and Okuryangava (Michael Maxwili Customer Care).

Passengers are urged to complete the transition early to avoid service disruptions. Each smartcard will be linked to the passenger’s name for easier balance recovery and card replacement if lost or damaged.