Meet the UWC graduates revolutionising South Africa's public transport with Uthutho
Makhi Mangxola and Shaqeel Less after they were announced as 2026 Red Bull Basement South Africa champs. They will be jetting off to the US to take part in the final leg of the 2026 Red Bull Basement competition in June.
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In a definitive triumph for homegrown innovation, two University of the Western Cape (UWC) alumni are set to represent South Africa on the global stage after their public transport solution, Uthutho, secured the 2026 Red Bull Basement national title.
Software developers Shaqeel Less and Makhi Mangxola, graduates of the UWC Future Innovation Lab, will jet off to San Francisco and Silicon Valley this June to showcase their groundbreaking digital platform alongside the world’s most elite young innovators.
The duo’s success marks a pivotal moment for South African tech, transforming the lived frustrations of the daily commute into a sophisticated, AI-driven tool designed to bring order to the often-unpredictable nature of public transport.
Developed in late 2025, Uthutho—meaning "transport"—emerged from the stark reality of navigating unclear taxi routes, fluctuating fares, and the pervasive lack of real-time travel data. By integrating high-level AI tools such as GPS and cloud technology, the app offers commuters live journey updates and community-verified information that significantly reduces waiting times and enhances personal safety.
Beyond the daily commute, the platform provides a vital service for families; school transport operators can list their vehicles and pricing, allowing parents to browse and apply for verified transport options directly through the app.
For Less and Mangxola, the journey from the UWC Future Innovation Lab to the precipice of international stardom has been defined by a commitment to real-world impact. Less, currently a developer at the University of Cape Town, noted that the project was born from a desire to make commuting predictable and accessible for those navigating unfamiliar routes.
Mangxola, now with the Shoprite Group, described their national win as an emotional validation of a problem they have both experienced firsthand. As they prepare for the World Final from 1–3 June, the stakes remain high; a global victory would grant them access to international mentorship, advanced AI resources, and the crucial funding required to expand Uthutho across the African continent and beyond.