The City of Ekurhuleni has introduced a new online payment platform called Siyakhokho, which allows residents to pay their rates and taxes from the convenience of their smartphones or desktops. The platform was introduced by the group chief financial officer (CFO) of the City of Ekurhuleni, Mr Kagiso Lerutla CA(SA), who recognized the need for a more efficient and convenient way for residents to pay their bills.

The Siyakhokho platform is a simple and user-friendly way for residents to pay for their rates and services. It is accessible from any device with an internet connection, and it allows users to make payments in just a few clicks. The platform supports a range of payment methods, including credit and debit cards, as well as direct bank transfers.

One of the main benefits of the Siyakhokho platform is that it saves time and eliminates the need for residents to physically go to a municipal customer care centre or bank to make payments. This is particularly important in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, where many people were trying to minimize their interactions with others.

Another benefit of the Siyakhokho platform is that it provides residents with greater transparency and control over their payments. Users can view their payment history and track their current balances in real time, which helps to prevent misunderstandings and disputes with the municipality.

Mr Lerutla has emphasized that the Siyakhokho platform is part of the city's broader efforts to modernize and digitize its services. By leveraging technology to make services more efficient and accessible, the city hopes to improve the quality of life for its residents and foster economic growth.

The introduction of Siyakhokho is a positive step for the City of Ekurhuleni and its residents. By making it easier and more convenient to pay rates and taxes, the platform will help to promote greater financial stability and sustainability in the city. It also serves as a model for other municipalities looking to modernize their services and leverage technology to better serve their residents.