Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has called for all businesses to join the crusade against crime by transitioning to cashless payment systems by 2025.
Speaking at the Cashless Indaba, an event designed to promote the widespread adoption of digital payments and expedite the shift towards a cashless society in Gauteng, Lesufi emphasised the urgency of this transition.
“We want to challenge the big industries till 2025 to go cashless. We believe we would be in a position to stop cash-in-transit heists. You take the oxygen of cash to cigarettes and illegal mining.
“Counterfeit goods thrive because of cash. We need to strengthen our systems. Criminals plague our province. We cannot attract investment to our province due to the high crime levels,” Lesufi said.
Premier Lesufi underscored the pivotal role cash transactions play in crimes like cash-in-transit heists, which pose substantial risks to the security of transport personnel and the public.
Lesufi posited that moving towards a cashless society offers an effective solution to combat these crimes.
This initiative primarily addresses the security risks associated with cash transactions, including theft and robberies, while highlighting the numerous advantages of digital transactions, such as heightened security and greater financial inclusion.
The premier stressed that the Cashless Indaba represents a critical step in Gauteng’s strategy to evolve into a digital economy and harness emerging opportunities.
He mentioned that numerous industries have already embraced cashless methods, emphasising the need to unify systems to facilitate seamless transitions.
Notably, public transport systems are targeted for a single ticketing approach, and technology forms the foundation of their crime prevention strategy.
“Today, we take a significant step towards a safer and more prosperous Gauteng. This Indaba reflects our commitment to addressing safety and security issues in our province while fostering financial inclusion. Going cashless is not just a convenience but a way to empower our communities,” said Lesufi.
As part of Agenda 2026, which aims to establish a cashless society in Gauteng within three years, Premier Lesufi pledged that the Gauteng Provincial Government will go cashless from April 1, 2024.
He urged industries to develop roadmaps toward Agenda 2026, particularly emphasising retail and taxi sectors leading the way.
MEC for Economic Development, Tasneem Motara echoed the same sentiments, noting, “Our journey towards a cashless society signifies a collective effort towards a better, more secure future for all. By embracing digital transactions, we are taking a giant leap towards reducing crime and ensuring the safety of our citizens. It also opens doors to greater financial inclusion as we strive to uplift our communities.”
Throughout the event, participants from various business sectors engaged in discussions that explored the manifold benefits of a cashless society, including increased safety, improved security, and expanded financial opportunities for all Gauteng residents.
MEC for Finance, Jacob Mamabolo, highlighted the rapid evolution of Gauteng’s cashless economy, with various government entities and services spearheading the adoption of digital transactions.
Notably, the Gauteng Liquor Board is developing an automated system for all their services, simplifying liquor license applications and renewals.
“Gauteng is embracing digital solutions to provide efficient services to its residents. The introduction of an online system for applying for services like matric rewrites and matric certificates marks a significant step in ensuring accessibility and convenience for students and learners,” Mamabolo added.
