A South African-based Malawian entrepreneur says he is developing a local ride-hailing and delivery platform aimed at improving security in the country’s transport sector, particularly for motorcycle taxi operators.

Jones Yamikani Chadza, founder of Pita-Go, told journalists the project is registered and currently in the development phase.

He said the platform seeks to connect passengers, drivers and goods delivery operators through a digital system that tracks trips in real time.

Chadza said the idea was prompted by rising cases of motorcycle robberies in which operators are attacked by criminals posing as passengers.

"We want to know who these drivers are, where they are and how they are moving," Chadza said. He added the system would also reduce congestion by enabling food and parcel deliveries to households.

According to Chadza, the developers have spent about K600 million so far on application development, registration and related costs.

He said the team has opened discussions with the Malawi Police Service, the Directorate of Road Traffic Safety Services and the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA), and is waiting to sign memoranda of understanding. Mobile network operators and banks are also being engaged to facilitate cashless payments.

Payments will be made through mobile money platforms and a proposed Pita-Go smart card, which would automatically deduct fares at the end of a trip, Chadza said.

He said only licensed and roadworthy drivers and riders would be allowed to register on the platform once operational.

Chadza did not give a specific launch date, saying pilot operations and service availability will be announced after partnerships and system development are completed.

He framed the project as part of Malawi’s push toward digitalisation under the Malawi 2063 development vision, arguing the country needs smart transport options for residents and visiting tourists.