Tee Pee Transport launches booking app

Otlarongwa Kgweetsi | Tuesday May 20, 2025 13:49

The app is designed to make purchase of ticket seamless and more accessible for passengers travelling on key routes within Botswana. The launch was officiated by Assistant Minister of Transport and Public Infrastructure, Keoagile Atamelang.

He highlighted Tee Pee Transport’s growth from a small minibus operation in 2008 to a company that now serves major domestic and regional routes.

“We are proud to see citizen-owned companies thriving despite challenges in the industry,” he said when delivering his speech.

Tee Pee Transport’s main routes include Gaborone to Francistown, Maun, and Serowe.

Currently, the app supports ticket bookings for the Gaborone–Francistown route, which is one of the busiest in the country. Plans are in place to expand service coverage to more destinations based on customer demand and feedback, officials said.

The app offers features such as digital tickets, secure payment options through mobile money and bank cards, and real-time updates on seat availability and bus schedules.

This allows passengers to book tickets from home or anywhere, reducing the need to stand in long queues at terminals.

Atamelang pointed out the broader benefits of adopting digital technology in the transport sector. For passengers, the app provides convenience and saves time. From the government’s perspective, the app offers a way to collect real-time data on passenger numbers and travel patterns.

“Such data can help with route planning and infrastructure development,” Atamelang said. He also stressed the importance of transparency in ticket sales.

“Digital records reduce fraud and improve operator compliance with regulations,” he added.

For her part, Gaborone City Council’s Deputy Mayor, Mankie Sekete, welcomed the app’s launch. She described the trailblazing innovation as a positive development that supports efforts to modernise the city’s transport system.

“This step aligns with global trends in digital service delivery,” the deputy mayor said.

She also noted that the app could improve the commuter experience and support Gaborone’s goal of becoming a smart and connected city.

Director of the Department of Road Transport and Safety (DRTS), Bokhutlo Modukanele, spoke about the role of technology in improving transport efficiency and safety.

“Digital platforms allow for better regulation and monitoring of licensed operators and routes,” he said.

The director emphasised that the app could assist in enforcing safety standards and reducing unauthorised ticket sales.

Although the app provides a digital alternative for booking tickets, Tee Pee Transport has assured customers that traditional ticket counters will remain open.

This is to accommodate passengers without access to smartphones or reliable internet. The company also plans to educate passengers about the app, especially in rural areas, to ensure wide adoption.

The launch fits within broader government initiatives to boost Botswana’s digital economy and promote innovation.

The use of digital ticketing and remote bookings is expected to reduce congestion at terminals, cut down on paper usage, and encourage other operators to adopt similar technologies.

Atamelang affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the transport sector through infrastructure development, improved IT services, and the issuance of more permits.

“We want to create an environment that supports innovation and economic growth,” he said.

Whilst challenges remain, particularly regarding accessibility for all passengers, this app represents an important step towards modernising public transport services in the country.