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Zanzibar has launched a fully cashless fare payment system for its new electric bus service, with digital financial services provider Mixx selected to manage ticket payments through a smart card platform as part of the ZanBus project.
The initiative was officially launched on July 23 by Zanzibar President and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, who said the electric bus project marks a major step towards creating a modern, environmentally friendly and efficient public transport system.
"The launch of this electric bus project is part of our commitment to building a modern, safe and environmentally friendly public transport system," President Mwinyi said.
He said the government plans to expand the fleet to 500 electric buses under a broader strategy to transition Zanzibar's public transport to zero-emission mobility, reduce pollution and improve urban transport services.
The Zanzibar Social Security Fund (ZSSF), the lead investor in the project, described ZanBus as a strategic investment that extends beyond transport by supporting technology adoption, environmental protection and economic development.
ZSSF Managing Director Nassor Shaaban Ameir said the project is designed to deliver long-term benefits for residents while contributing to Zanzibar's sustainable development agenda.
Under the new system, passengers will pay fares using reloadable smart cards linked to the Mixx digital payments platform, eliminating the need for cash.
Users will be able to top up their cards through their mobile phones or via Mixx's network of nearly 20,000 agents across Zanzibar.
Mixx Chief Operating Officer Arnold Ngarashi said digital payments are essential to modern public transport systems, adding that the platform will make commuting faster, safer and more convenient.
"Through Mixx, passengers will be able to top up their smart cards easily using their mobile phones or through our network of nearly 20,000 agents across Zanzibar," he said.
Ngarashi said the digital payment platform will also improve revenue transparency, enhance the passenger experience and create opportunities to integrate additional digital services into the transport sector.
He added that Mixx's involvement reflects the company's broader strategy of supporting digital transformation across key sectors, including transport, commerce and public services.
Ngarashi also said sister companies Yas and Yas Fiber are partnering with the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar to strengthen the islands' digital infrastructure, including Yas Fiber's planned investment of approximately Sh300 billion to expand fibre-optic connectivity across Zanzibar.
