Benson T
Ghanaian startup Stabus, which provides a bus booking platform, is what commuters in the country need to navigate the challenges of using the public transport system.
That is the target of the online booking platform, the startup’s founder Isidore Kpotufe. According to the entrepreneur, a 10-minute ride Accra can last up to an hour. The problem of traffic congestion, which means people spend too much time moving from one end to another- not good for business!
Kpofute, also the founder of software development studio Africa Web Consult, says he started Stabus to help bring efficiency in the sector.
The startup has a simple value proposition: Stabus’ buses provide better services compared to the ‘trotro’. The ‘trotro’ refers to the buses that ply Ghana’s routes- similar to Nigeria’s danfo.
The startup uses a simple mechanism in its services: aggregate third-party public transport providers and connects them to passengers. Users access these services via mobile apps or by USSD shortcodes.
According to Kpotufe, Ghanaians will benefit from Stabus’ exquisite services that aim to reduce traffic congestion.
Stabus passengers, nonetheless have to pay nearly 30% more in bus fare compared to what trotros charge. But the trade-off is countered by the comfort of booking from an app instead of having to queue long hours at bus stops. Passengers also benefit from fixed schedules, allowing for an effective transport system.
The platform operates as a self-funded startup and is in the process of securing pre-seed funding. The company will use the funds to scale operations to meet growing demand.
Kpofute believes the fact that many people do not think public transport will become any better is good news for the startup.
