New symbols for Metrobus

The values of honesty, respect, co-operation, ubuntu, and accountability have been translated into emblems that are painted on several Metrobus buses.

Challenging road users: mayoral committee member for transport, Rehana Moosajee, launches the five emblems

STRIKING new emblems have been painted on five Metrobus buses, aimed at promoting transport values and improving the quality of service in public transport.

The City's transportation department decided on the five emblems to build partnerships with its employees, other public transport operators, commuters and pedestrians, and to improve public transport. They are based on a common set of values - accountability, co-operation, honesty, respect and ubuntu. It is hoped that in time these values will become entrenched in both service providers and users of public transport.

Rehana Moosajee, the member of the mayoral committee for transport, said the objective behind the project was to challenge people to think about what they did on the roads, and whether their actions contributed to a better transport system.

The five emblems were unveiled at the Metrobus head office in Braamfontein on Wednesday, 5 December. Speaking at the event, Moosajee said, "We accept that we will not be able to change behaviour overnight, but with the launch of the value symbols, we are starting a process for a deep and meaningful … change in society that will lead to safer roads, a better transport system and human beings who interact with each other in old age traditions."

They appealed to a wide range of people and had proven to be effective in changing their behaviour. "When the people of Johannesburg see these emblems they must associate them with quality service and a safe and enjoyable experience on our buses."

Unveiling the five emblems

The emblems were displayed on five Metrobus buses; it was hoped that by July 2008 they would be on 15 buses, bus shelters, bus stops and other transport facilities. "For the people of Johannesburg who make use of our buses the symbols will represent the essence of quality bus service, such as punctuality, accessibility, cleanliness, friendliness, and value for money," Moosajee said.

In the coming months, the transportation department would promote the symbols to commuters and other city residents. Calendars and bumper stickers would be distributed at many places, including at the construction sites of the Bus Rapid Transit system, or Rea Vaya.

"We want these emblems to be instantly recognisable across the city."

In designing the emblems, the City had worked with different stakeholders – who had all pledged to support the initiative – including commuter organisations and the taxi industry. "We reached an agreement that these are the key values that we must aspire to in terms of service delivery; we are convinced that we won't do it alone," Moosajee said.

She urged councillors and other stakeholders in the transport industry to help promote the values and include them in their transport campaigns. "We can choose to focus on what is negative or not working, or create a vision for the type of society we want and then work to build the city of our dreams."

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