Paying for a bus or private shuttle trip in Kenya could become easier thanks to search giant Google and Equity Bank partnering to unveil a cashless payment system dubbed ‘BebaPay’.

The technology is planned to enable commuters to pay for transport using Near Field Communication (NFC) cards that are loaded with credit.

Commuters get a confirmation text message once they pay for the service. The text message then acts as a virtual receipt, making the whole process paperless.

However, ‘Beba’ transport cards have already been in operation in Kenya.

Google last year launched a product called Beba cards, which required agents to load up the cards with cash.

The difference with ‘BebaPay’, though, is that because Equity Bank is a partner for the system, the loading of credits for the cards do not require physical agents anymore.

Dr. James Mwangi, chief executive officer, Equity Bank, said, “The BebaPay card is a first for Kenya and will change the transport industry when it comes to payment.”

Joe Mucheru, Google Kenya country manager said, “Research showed that technology could help bus operators and passengers to ease the process of ticketing, so we’re pleased that Nairobi commuters can now enjoy the advantages of BebaPay.”

He added, “Using NFC is part of Google’s efforts to improve transactions for both businesses and consumers. NFC makes it easier for people to pay for goods and services, and gives merchants extra ways to connect with their customers using technology and the internet”.

Equity bank is banking on its network across the country to launch the product at all corners of the country.