Gautrain cuts train fares by 50% for vulnerable households and individuals
Gautrain The Gautrain has launched KlevaMova, a new initiative offering a 50% discount on train fares for households
Image: Chris Collingridge / Independent Media.
The Gautrain has introduced KlevaMova, an initiative providing a 50% discount on train fares for students, pensioners, recipients of disability grants and households with a combined annual income of R350,000 or less.
In a joint statement last week, the Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, and the Gautrain Management Agency said the move aims to ease the financial burden of travel and improve access to affordable public transport across the province.
The announcement comes as transport continue to add pressure point for many households.
According to the Gauteng Household Travel Survey, almost 60% of households spent more than 10% of their income on public transport in 2019/20, up from 55% in 2014.
Diale-Tlabela 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.
You are eligible to apply for 50% off your train fare if you earn up to R350k annually. Visit https://t.co/XWhgstpZA4 , call 0800 428 87246 (toll-free) or visit our friendly promoters at your nearest Gautrain station. Ts & Cs apply. #GautrainKlevaMova #KlevaMova pic.twitter.com/kJvrRWHcoO — Gautrain (@TheGautrain) May 6, 2025
'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.
She mentioned that KlevaMova is part of the government's initiative to improve the accessibility of the Gautrain for a larger segment of the population in Gauteng.
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
-:-
Loaded :
0%
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Advertisement
Next
Stay
Close ✕
'KlevaMova forms part of the 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,' She said.
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za
IOL Business Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
IOL News
2 hours ago
- IOL News
Entrepreneurship in basic education will contribute to a job-creating economy
The Department of Basic Education's (DBE) ongoing integration of entrepreneurship education into schools, driven by its E³ (Employability, Entrepreneurship, and Education) initiative, is both timely and urgent, says the author. Image: AI LAB South Africans remain resilient and determined, despite their continued efforts to deal with the challenges of youth unemployment, crime, and poverty. Recent reports from Statistics South Africa show that the youth unemployment rate is 46.1% for the 15-34 age group, 62.4% for the 15-24 age group and 40,4% for the 25-34 age group; these statistics indicate a crisis that requires deliberate intervention. The Department of Basic Education's (DBE) ongoing integration of entrepreneurship education into schools, driven by its E³ (Employability, Entrepreneurship, and Education) initiative, is both timely and urgent. Recently making headlines through its new partnership with the European Union, the DBE has entered a critical phase of implementation that goes beyond theory. The focus is now on embedding practical, challenge-based entrepreneurial learning into the national curriculum (CAPS), starting from the foundation phase. With youth unemployment at crisis levels, this initiative represents a strategic shift towards preparing learners not only for the job market but to become job creators in a rapidly evolving economy. This initiative is a great step toward addressing our country's many socio-economic challenges. According to the CEO and Founder of Centennial Schools, Shaun Fuchs, the challenges we have start with our education curriculum at the basic level. He believes that while South Africa does not have as immense entrepreneurial potential, the education system must do more to equip young people with the skills and mindset to build sustainable businesses. Entrepreneurship has been shown to have a positive impact on various aspects of society, including economic growth, job creation, and social mobility. However, it is quite difficult to be an entrepreneur in South Africa. The most recent Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) South Africa Report (2023/24) shows that entrepreneurial activity exhibited notable variation across different age groups. In 2023, the highest entrepreneurial engagement levels were observed among individuals aged 25-34 and 55-64, with 18,3% and 19,8%, respectively. In contrast, the youngest age group (18-24 years) demonstrated the lowest level of engagement, with only 10,6% involved in entrepreneurship. This disparity suggests that younger South Africans may encounter more substantial barriers to entering the entrepreneurial ecosystem, potentially due to limited access to resources, networks, or entrepreneurial education. These patterns underscore the necessity of targeted support measures for younger and middle-aged prospective entrepreneurs, enabling them to fully realise their innovative potential and contribute meaningfully to the economy. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Where is the problem, and should we put all the responsibility in the education system?As much as we cannot rely on education alone, entrepreneurship education is a solution that can help learners develop essential and relevant skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity and innovation, opportunity recognition, resilience, leadership, financial literacy and teamwork. These skills are not only valuable in entrepreneurship but also highly valued by employers, making learners entrepreneurial and employable. To address South Africa's high unemployment rate, the basic education system must shift its focus from preparing learners solely to participate in a job-giving economy to enabling them to actively contribute to a job-creating economy, in addition to the job-giving economy. Traditionally, schooling has emphasised compliance, exam preparation, and readiness for formal employment as the sole path to success. This model reinforces dependency on the government and corporate sectors for job opportunities. If we are intentional about embedding entrepreneurial thinking, problem-solving, and value-creation skills early in the curriculum, the education system can nurture a generation of learners who view themselves as future job creators, not just job seekers. However, this approach requires integrating practical entrepreneurship education, design thinking, and local economic understanding into subjects across all phases. Such a shift will promote self-reliance, community upliftment, and long-term economic resilience. One example is the tt100 Learnership/Internship Programme, which has equipped hundreds of unemployed young South Africans with valuable skills in partnership with The DaVinci Institute, the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and others. Supported by the DSI since 1994, this youth empowerment programme showcases and recognises the role of leadership in the management of innovation, and sustainable development with the view to creating an enabling environment for a capable state, through innovation and development of people skills and the capacity of citizens. These are the routes we must take to bring the concept of a job-creating economy into the basic education system, which aligns strongly with South Africa's national economic goals. Due to the country's high levels of youth unemployment outpacing job creation, shrinking formal sectors, automation and public sector overload, sole reliance on a job-giving economy where employment is expected from the government or corporations is no longer sustainable. Shifting the focus of basic education towards nurturing entrepreneurial thinking, self-employment, and value creation, learners can be empowered from an early age to become active economic participants. This approach supports several national priorities, including reducing youth unemployment, growing the small business sector, and fostering inclusive economic participation. It also contributes to economic transformation by promoting a shift from consumption to production, enabling innovation, and reducing dependency on the state for employment. This is in direct alignment with policy frameworks such as the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030, the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, and the White Paper on Post-School Education and Training, all of which highlight the importance of entrepreneurship, skills development, and job creation. I believe that if we are intentional about positioning entrepreneurship as a core outcome of the basic education system, it will help build a resilient, self-sufficient society equipped for the future.
IOL News
2 hours ago
- IOL News
US joins Iran-Israel conflict: Essential travel advisories for South Africans to note
Travellers queue at Cape Town International Airport. Image: David Ritchie/Independent Newspapers (File) The escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, which now includes the United States (US), which carried out attacks on three nuclear sites in Iran on Sunday, has resulted in a number of travel advisories and alerts that SA travellers should note. On Sunday, the US joined Israel's bombing campaign after days of speculation over whether they would be involvedin the conflict. In a televised address from the White House, after the strikes, US President Donald Trump said: "Iran's key nuclear enrichment facilities have been completely and totally obliterated. Iran, the bully of the Middle East, must now make peace." Previously, on 15 June, the Department of International Relations (Dirco) urged all South Africans in Iran to contact the Embassy in Tehran to ensure that they are registered with and that their whereabouts are known to the Embassy. 'It is important to note that South Africa's support in the country is limited and that it could be assumed that no face-to-face consular assistance will be possible in an emergency, and the South African Government may not be able to help you if you get into difficulty, depending on your location. 'Therefore, citizens are further encouraged to assess their own safety and security and act accordingly.' Following Israeli strikes on Iran in the early hours of 13 June, airspace in Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Syria, and Israel has been closed. According to Flightradar24, the closures affect approximately 3,000 flights per day through cancelled flights or re-routes. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ According to Flightradar24, the closures affect approximately 3,000 flights per day through cancelled flights or re-routes. Image: Flightradar24 Emirates and Qatar Airways are among the few airlines that have issued travel advisories for travellers and have had to suspend their flights. Emirates said on Saturday that due to the regional situation, they have temporarily suspended all flights to Iran (Tehran) and Iraq (Baghdad and Basra), until and including Monday, 30 June 2025. 'Customers connecting through Dubai with final destinations in Iraq and Iran will not be accepted for travel at their point of origin until further notice. Customers impacted by flight cancellations must contact their travel agency for rebooking. If booked directly with Emirates, please contact us.' They also urged travellers departing or arriving at Dubai International Airport to check their flight status on for the latest information. 'We apologise for any inconvenience caused to our customers. We continue to closely monitor developments. The safety of our passengers, employees and operations will always be our top priority.' The Iranian flag is pictured in front of Iran's Foreign Ministry building in Tehran November 23, 2009. Image: Morteza Nikoubazl/Reuters Qatar Airways said they have temporarily cancelled flights to Iran, Iraq and Syria. The affected airports in Iran include Imam Khomeini Airport (IKA), Mashhad Airport (MHD), and Shiraz Airport (SYZ). In Iraq, the affected airports are Baghdad Airport (BGW), Erbil Airport (EBL), Basra Airport (BSR), Sulaymaniyah Airport (ISU) and Najaf Airport (NJF). In Syria, the affected airport is Damascus International Airport (DAM). The United Kingdom's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has advised against all travel to Iran. 'If you are a British national already in Iran, either resident or visitor, carefully consider your presence there and the risks you take by staying. British and British-Iranian dual nationals are at significant risk of arrest, questioning or detention. Having a British passport or connections to the UK can be reason enough for the Iranian authorities to detain you,' they said.
IOL News
6 hours ago
- IOL News
From challenges to triumph: The story of Isabella Kobela and her daughter in the jewellery industry
In the vibrant world of jewellery making, Isabella Jewellers and Refiners stands out not only for its exquisite craftsmanship but also for its commitment to nurturing the next generation of artisans. Headed by Meiki Ncengeni, aged 35, and her mother Isabella Kobela, who is 63, this family-run business is paving a new path in an industry challenged by a skills shortage and market access barriers. Image: Supplied. In the vibrant world of South African jewellery production, Isabella Kobela (63) stands as a beacon of resilience and innovation. Trained as a goldsmith and a rough diamond evaluator, she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey in 2008 with just R2,000. What began as a small-scale jewellery manufacturing venture has since flourished into Isabella Jewellers and Refiners, a multifaceted enterprise that not only creates exquisite custom pieces but also pipes raw materials to wholesalers while engaging in eco-conscious refining and recycling operations. Isabella's journey resonates profoundly within a nation where economic opportunities for black female entrepreneurs are historically limited. 'I faced numerous challenges, from acquiring licenses to ensuring a steady supply of metals and gems,' Isabella said. Yet, with determination and creative problem-solving, she identified ways to refine her own materials, transforming obstacles into stepping stones. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading The entrepreneurship gene runs strong in the family, as Isabella was inspired to step into the sector by her father, who was a shoe repair man. In 2012, Isabella's daughter, Meiki Ngcengeni (35), joined the firm after earning her degree in Transport and Supply Chain Management. This marked the beginning of a powerful new chapter, with mother and daughter complementing each other's strengths: Isabella focuses on jewellery design while Meiki steers the company as CEO, overseeing finances and overall operations. One of the pieces created by the business. Image: Supplied. Their collaboration exemplifies a visionary blend of experience and youthful perspective, as Meiki builds upon the legacy her mother has crafted. The company stands out not only for its exquisite craftsmanship but also for its commitment to nurturing the next generation of artisans. Both women are ardent believers in continuous learning and improvement, seeking mentorship within the industry to diversify their skill sets. Their dedication has borne fruit through the De Beers Enterprise Development programme, which has empowered them with practical business tools, networking opportunities, and access to previously unattainable markets. 'This programme has been pivotal for our growth, helping us learn the intricacies of diamond buying, cutting, and polishing,' Meiki said. This knowledge isn't just enhancing their business operations; it is also facilitating job creation. Today, Isabella Jewellers and Refiners employs six individuals, three of whom are women, and has recently welcomed six students into a promising learnership programme aimed at cultivating the next generation of jewellery artisans. Over six months to a year, students will receive hands-on training covering the entire value chain of jewellery making, from traditional handmade techniques to advanced methods like Computer-Aided Design (CAD), setting, and casting. Entry into this programme is competitive. The selection process involves telephonic and in-person interviews to vet students, ensuring a diverse cohort dedicated to mastering their craft. This approach not only prepares graduates for employment but also empowers them to potentially launch their own start-ups in the industry. Some of the pieces created by the business. Image: Supplied. Despite these efforts, Isabella Jewellers faces significant challenges. One of the primary issues is access to the market. However, being strategically positioned in the O.R. Tambo Jewellery Manufacturing Precinct has enhanced their visibility and fostered connections with new clients. "Participating in initiatives like the De Beers Enterprise and Supplier Development programmes has opened doors to larger retailers and invaluable platforms such as exhibitions and trade shows," explains Meiki. Another challenge is the shortage of skilled artisans. To address this gap, Isabella Jewellers provides mentorship and business guidance alongside their training programmes. Drawing from their own experiences as beneficiaries of structured mentorship programmes, Meiki highlights their significant impact on sustainable growth. The tumultuous period of the Covid-19 pandemic underscored the importance of sustainability in business operations. For Isabella Jewellers, it prompted a reevaluation of their systems and financial accountability. By streamlining operations and automating certain processes, they have become more efficient and environmentally conscious. The incorporation of ethical production practices reflects their commitment to reducing environmental impact, demonstrating that growth doesn't have to come at a harm to the planet. As they continue to navigate the dynamic landscape of the jewellery industry, the Kobela duo stands ready to inspire others. Their journey exemplifies not just the triumph of entrepreneurship, but also the profound impact of women in business. 'We are laying the groundwork for future generations. We want to show that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible,' Meiki said. BUSINESS REPORT
