Gauteng, South Africa — The Gauteng Department of e-Government has officially launched a simple, cost-free solution for residents to report service delivery issues using any mobile phone. The new USSD platform—activated by dialing *134*47472#—is designed to reach even those without smartphones or internet access, bringing governance closer to every citizen.
Announced on June 25, 2025, the initiative forms part of the provincial #GrowingGautengTogether and #atyourservice campaigns. With just a few taps, residents can now alert authorities to service disruptions, infrastructure breakdowns, and administrative issues directly from their devices.
Government at Your Fingertips
Marketed under the slogan “Simple. Fast. Free.”, the USSD service stands out for its accessibility. No apps, no data, no smartphones—just a basic phone is enough to engage with government structures. This is a game-changer for communities where digital tools are often out of reach.
A spokesperson from the e-Government department said the platform aims to “empower every resident, especially in underserved areas,” by removing digital barriers. The move reflects a broader shift toward inclusive, tech-driven governance in Gauteng.
The department operates from Imbumba House in Johannesburg, where it has already led various digital innovations—from township CCTV expansions to an online job portal and the e-Panic Button for emergencies.
Tackling Service Delivery Through Innovation
Gauteng continues to face challenges such as infrastructure theft, prolonged repairs, and bureaucratic bottlenecks. By allowing residents to instantly report these issues, the department hopes to speed up response times and create greater accountability across public services.
The launch also aligns with the #egovatwork initiative, which encourages citizens to actively engage in shaping their local environments. “This is about partnership,” noted a senior official, “between government and community—powered by technology.”
The USSD tool now complements existing reporting channels, including the Gauteng hotline (0860 428 8364) and dedicated email ([email protected]), offering residents multiple ways to raise concerns.
Inclusive Governance in the Digital Age
This effort to bridge the digital divide has earned praise from civil society and tech-watchers alike. The platform’s ability to reach rural and low-income users marks a significant shift in the way public services are delivered and monitored.
As Gauteng seeks to become a smarter, more connected province, the e-Government team has reaffirmed its goal: to ensure no resident is left behind. Whether it’s a burst pipe, power outage, or municipal complaint—help is just a few keypresses away.
In an era where technology often divides, Gauteng’s USSD service sets a bold example of how it can also unite and empower. Residents are now urged to dial *134*47472# and play an active role in improving service delivery across the province.
This mobile-friendly approach marks another milestone in Gauteng’s digital journey—one that brings governance into the hands of the people, literally.
