In response to the growing number of road traffic fatalities in Zimbabwe, particularly involving commuter omnibuses, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development has introduced significant policy changes aimed at improving road safety. One of the most notable changes is the restriction of operating distances for smaller commuter omnibuses with a capacity of 26 passengers or less, limiting them to a 60 km radius, down from the previous 120 km. This regulation, effective from September 3, 2024, applies to new permit applicants, while existing operators may continue under their current permits until they expire.
To further enhance road safety, commuters traveling beyond the 60 km radius are encouraged to use buses, which offer greater reliability, adherence to schedules, more spacious seating, and enhanced safety features. Buses are seen as a safer, more comfortable alternative to kombis, particularly for long-distance travel.
The government has also mandated that all commuter omnibuses operating within the 60 km radius must be equipped with speed limiting and monitoring devices, as required under Statutory Instrument 118 of 2023. This aligns with existing safety regulations for buses and reflects the Second Republic’s commitment to addressing the issue of road fatalities caused by speeding. The Ministry has warned operators that severe penalties will be imposed on those who fail to comply with these regulations.
In addition, the government has intensified its efforts to crack down on illegal commuter vehicles, known as mushika-shika, which have become notorious for picking up passengers at undesignated points and causing damage to road infrastructure. Law enforcement agencies have been tasked with apprehending these offenders to ensure the safety of all road users.
The Ministry has called for the collaboration of all traffic law enforcement agencies, road safety organizations, and motorists in this initiative. This regulatory push is part of a broader effort by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration to address the country’s road safety challenges and reduce the number of traffic-related accidents.
