Govt Urges Patience as eTicketing Rollout Stumbles

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, MSMEs and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, has urged the public to be patient amid mounting concerns over the delayed rollout of Fiji's new eTicketing system.

Mr Kamikamica confirmed he had summoned Vodafone Fiji to address ongoing issues affecting commuters, particularly around card registration and customer service.

Vodafone is the service provider behind the system.

Speaking to media yesterday, he acknowledged public frustration and stressed that government was working closely with the company to resolve challenges.

"This is a significant transition, especially for the one-third of our population who rely on bus services. We're collaborating with Vodafone to make the process faster and more accessible," he said.

The minister revealed that additional resources were being deployed to support the registration process and to ensure a smoother transition.

The e-ticketing system, which replaces cash payments, aims to enhance safety for both drivers and passengers.

However, concerns remain about accessibility, especially for those without digital or mobile services.

"We understand not everyone has access to mobile phones or data, but the new cards also support offline top-ups," Mr Kamikamica said.

"There are now more options QR payments, digital transfers.

If Vodafone's hotline (155) isn't helping, call me directly."

Some members of the public have called for a return to cash payments, but Mr Kamikamica appealed for unity.

"This system has long-term benefits for all Fijians. We just need to work together to make it work," he said.

The ministry has pledged to closely monitor the rollout and ensure registration agents are available nationwide.

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