Solar Wi-Fi at Stellenbosch taxi rank helps commuters get online, expansion planned

A solar-powered internet project at a busy Stellenbosch taxi rank is helping commuters, students and traders get online, and its success is driving plans to expand the model to other communities.

The system, known as ‘Internet in a Box’, has been running at the main Stellenbosch CBD taxi rank for nearly two years, offering low-cost connectivity in an area where access is often limited.

It was created by local entrepreneur Liberty Bwanali, founder of Lib Connect Africa, who built the technology from scratch to serve the community where he lives.

Built to help the community, not make a profit

Tasmin Cupido of Eikestadnuus said the project is notable because it focuses on social impact rather than revenue.

“This Internet in a Box project isn’t about profit, but about giving back to the place where he grew up and studied,” Cupido said.

The idea started when Bwanali was asked to provide internet access to two residents — but instead of offering a once-off solution, he built a system that now benefits hundreds of users at the taxi rank.

Traders, students and commuters are all logging on

The network now serves a broad mix of users, including schoolchildren, university students, taxi drivers, elderly commuters and informal traders.

Cupido said the strong community support is reflected in the fact that there has been no vandalism since installation.

“The project gained such community ownership that there’s been no vandalism,” he said.

Informal traders are also benefiting financially, with some selling Wi-Fi vouchers and earning income in the process.

“This project truly empowers the local community economically while also bridging the digital divide,” Cupido added.

Expansion interest is growing, but funding is needed

Voucher prices range from roughly R5 to R20, helping keep access affordable.

The success of the taxi rank installation has already prompted requests for similar systems in nearby areas, including Kayamandi, with Bwanali aiming to expand across transport hubs in the greater Stellenbosch region.

But any broader rollout will depend on securing financial backing.

Solar design allows use even without electricity

The system’s off-grid design is seen as key to its success and scalability.

“It’s essentially a compact black box that contains a solar setup with lithium batteries,” Cupido said.

“Solar power means that it operates off-grid and doesn’t rely on electricity.”

That independence from the grid could make the project viable in other underserved communities where infrastructure remains a challenge.

For more detailed information, listen to Cupido using the audio player below: