Beba card was introduced by Google in Kenya and issued by Citi Hoppa for free. Beba card replaces cash for e-mode of payment. Kenya’s transport sector is undergoing transformation. Citi Hoppa (transportation company) is leading the way in revolutionizing the industry. Transport problems in Kenya are many; hiking fare is a common phenomena especially during raining seasons.
Citi Hoppa and Google’s beba card
There are peak hours and off-peak hours. Mornings and evenings are peak hours (rush hour) while midday lies in the off-peak hour. Many commuters suffer as a result of the hikes. They are forced to budget for uncertainties that sometimes go beyond reasonable amounts.
Owners of commuter transport vehicles have also been suffering from extortion by their workers. Because fare is not constant, it is very difficult to calculate the exact figure collected from the business. They only resort to relying on the honesty of their employees.
Not all employees are trust worthy. If that is held constant, then failure in business looms. It is not surprising to meet fare-collectors who boast of huge amounts they take home (by declaring a lesser amount from what they collected), in some cases more than what the vehicle owners pocket.
Photo of Citi Hoppa in the street of Nairobi, Kenya
A solution had to be found. With new high technology in the market, an optimal answer has been achieved. Google has introduced “beba card” that is used to pay fare on Citi Hoppa buses.
This card is easy to use. This is how it works: You just have to tap your card on a card reader to pay. The card is issued for free. And there are no charges for using it, just absolutely FREE! The card is loaded with money and function just like the way an ATM works.
E-money will substitute the burden of carrying solid cash which in most cases is not safe. In Nairobi where a chance of being mugged is 1/10, this card would probably be very beneficial.
Don’t ask yourself too many questions. It is safe, a 100% like your credit top-up card. Grab your beba card and enjoy the luxury of paying your fare with e-money. Say bye to the old way of paying commuter fee using cash and enjoy technology in the comfort of your seat!!
