Should free wi-fi be the norm on public transport?

“There are times when you are sitting in a taxi listening to boring music. Remember, we don’t all enjoy the same type of music. But with wi-fi, you can connect to your smartphone and do something different. You can be on social networks. It’s a lovely initiative”. Over a decade ago, a South African tech start-up owned by the taxi industry came up with an idea to roll out free wi-fi in minibus taxis. This would empower millions of people who don’t have access to the internet at home, school or work. The initiative hit a series of stumbling blocks over the years, but finally took off a few weeks ago. At least 15 million South Africans use minibus taxis on a daily basis. Our producer for this episode, Mpho Lakaje, took a taxi ride around Johannesburg to see if the internet works. Presenter: Alan Kasujja Guests: Onica Makwakwa, Brian Mdluli and Cliff de Wit