“Innovation is only meaningful when it makes daily travel easier.”
As the year comes to an end, GO GEORGE reflects on another year of growth, service delivery, and community support. Since launching its first four routes on 8 December 2014, the system has grown into a cornerstone of public transport in George. Eleven years later, the service now operates 133 buses across 33 routes, transporting an average of 20 185 passengers every weekday. More than six million passengers were conveyed over the past 12 months.
GO GEORGE Manager, Morné Lakay, expressed heartfelt appreciation to passengers for their loyalty and feedback throughout the year. “We are deeply grateful to every passenger who chooses GO GEORGE daily, and to those who share their experiences with us. Your support and input help us continually improve the service, ensuring that public transport remains a reliable, affordable and accessible option for all,” he said.
Infrastructure upgrades lead the way
Lakay highlighted the extensive infrastructure upgrades as one of the year’s most significant achievements. “Funded by the National Department of Transport’s Public Transport Network Grant, these improvements are reshaping the city’s transport landscape, and have at the same time already created 587 job opportunities through the construction projects,” Lakay noted.
According to Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku, GO GEORGE demonstrates how well-planned, integrated public transport can improve daily mobility while supporting local economic growth. “The Western Cape Government remains committed to investing in safe, reliable and innovative transport systems that connect communities to opportunity,” he said.
Smarter travel through innovation
2025 has also seen steady progress in making travel easier and more connected. New digital tools — including a chatbot, the GO GEORGE App, and information screens at busy hubs — are being phased in to give passengers quicker access to service updates and route information. QR codes have already become a familiar sight, linking travellers directly to schedules and notices.
“Introducing these innovations is about more than technology,” said Lakay. “It’s about listening to our passengers and giving them practical tools that make their daily journeys smoother. Innovation is only meaningful when it makes daily travel easier. We appreciate the feedback we’ve received so far, and our team is committed to guiding passengers as they explore these new features with confidence.”
Looking ahead
As GO GEORGE celebrates its 11th anniversary this December, the team remains dedicated to building on the progress of 2025. “We look forward to another year of serving the George community with dignity, reliability and innovation, while expanding our routes to connect even more residents to the places they need to be,” Lakay concluded.