MyCiTi and Golden Arrow hold off on fare hikes despite fuel-price surge

Cape Town commuters have been spared from another fare hike despite a significant rise in fuel prices. Both MyCiTi and Golden Arrow Bus Services have decided to hold off on immediate fare increases. MyCiTi, which had already increased fares on July 1, 2026, will not implement further adjustments to its fares due to the latest fuel price surge.

The City of Cape Town's MMC for Urban Mobility, Rob Quintas, stated that the fuel price increase, effective from October 7, will not affect MyCiTi bus fares. MyCiTi's fare adjustment mechanism only responds if the fuel price reaches the next fare level for two out of three months or for two consecutive months. Golden Arrow, on the other hand, has not announced any immediate plans to increase fares.

The company, which uses about 25 million litres of diesel annually, stated that diesel constitutes more than 30% of its operating costs. Golden Arrow has warned that continued fuel cost increases could lead to fare reviews in the future. Despite the company's efforts to absorb rising costs, it has not ruled out fare adjustments in the coming months.

Any decision on fare changes will take into account the sustainability of the service and the impact on passengers. Golden Arrow has promised at least one week's notice before any fare increase, if possible. The company is committed to maintaining current service levels and shielding passengers from the impact of rising operating costs.