An investigation into the factors that influence commuters in the North West Province with specific references to the Mafikeng area

Abstract

Since time in memorial, mobility by humans has been a major activity which has undergone a lot of transformation. During the ancient times, people moved from one place to another for various reasons using different methods. Modernisation has brought along a new dimension of commuting from one place to the other. Unlike the olden times when commuters used to walk long distances with the help of stars, clouds and other natural landmarks to navigate their way to the desired destinations . The invention of a wide variety of modes of commuting has brought about different choices of which mode to use with certain factors being the influence of such choices. The study has explored a wide variety of issues pertaining to the factors which influence commuters in the North West Province particularly in the Mafikeng area and among other things, source of income, status in society, speed, affordability and age have been thoroughly investigated in order to come up with the influencing factors. The research revealed that the majority of commuters who utilize both public and private commuting modes are of the school going age which is below 20 years. That means this category of commuter has a great influence on the commuting sector. Other factors that influence the choice of mode are age and income. Also, weather can have an impact on the service provided and therefore, cause disruptions. On the other hand, government needs to be in partnership with private service providers. It will regulate public transport and overhaul the entire road infrastructure. The researcher recommends that both government and the public sectors need joint effort in order to effectively respond to the challenges of providing an effective and efficient transport system recommendations have further been made regarding the issue so that the identified gaps may be sealed to have a smooth running system.