The second phase of the “Getting You to Work” Jobseeker Travel Voucher Programme was officially launched on Tuesday 10 June at the Mitchells Plain Town Centre Library.
The programmme, aimed at tackling one of the greatest barriers facing unemployed residents, the cost of transport, was met with an encouraging response. More than 300 unemployed jobseekers attended, registered and received Gold Cards that will allow them to travel free to access job opportunities, using Golden Arrow Bus Services across the Cape Metro.
The Jobseeker Travel Voucher Programme was first introduced in February 2024 and, since then, more than 3 700 unemployed residents have registered through more than 150 employer partners. The programme is rooted in a simple but powerful goal – removing the barrier created by the cost of public transport for residents to get jobs, according to a statement by the Western Cape Mobility Department.
Phase 1 revealed particularly high uptake in communities such as Mitchells Plain, Khayelitsha, Delft, Gugulethu and Philippi, highlighting the immense demand for this kind of intervention.
Muneera Allie, Western Cape Mobility Department head of communications, said too many capable and willing residents remained unemployed, not because they lack skills or motivation, but simply because they cannot afford to get to an interview, a training centre or their first day of work.
“Transport becomes the obstacle to residents achieving their full potential. This programme is about opening doors and restoring dignity. It is about recognising that every person deserves a fair shot at opportunity. Phase 2 aims to expand our reach, making it easier for more jobseekers to register, access support and get to where they need to be.”
New in Phase 2
- Self-registration: Jobseekers can now register online directly, removing the previous requirement to go through a registered employer.
- Six free trips per voucher: Vouchers now carry six free trips, usable between 09:00 and 15:00, Monday to Friday.
- Extended duration: The programme has been extended until 31 March next year.
In Phase 2, employers in Cape Town are also encouraged to register as partners and offer the travel vouchers to prospective employees.
This initiative forms part of the Western Cape Government’s Growth for Jobs Strategy, which aims to build an inclusive, resilient and sustainable economy.
Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku said data has shown that those who received vouchers had a greater chance of attending interviews, securing work and participating in skills development. “That is the pathway from unemployment to opportunity. That is the Growth for Jobs agenda in action. No-one should be left behind because they cannot afford to get to an interview.”
For more information and to apply, visit Your FREE RIDE to opportunity.
