Kombi drivers have voiced their discontent following Transport Minister Felix Mhona’s recent decision to significantly tighten route restrictions. The new policy, which slashes the allowed route radius for kombis from 120 km to just 60 km, aims to address the alarming rise in road traffic accidents. This regulation also mandates that kombis be equipped with speed limiters and monitoring devices.
Minister Mhona explained the rationale behind the ban, stating, “As the Ministry endeavors to mitigate against road traffic crashes involving kombis, a policy position has been taken to review the current radius-based restrictions for kombis on the issuance of route permits from 120 km to 60 km with effect from the 3rd of September 2024 for operators seeking new permits.”
The new restrictions have been met with significant resistance from kombi drivers, who argue that the policy unfairly targets their sector while failing to address broader issues of road safety. The drivers are determined to continue providing transportation services despite the new limitations. In a bid to circumvent the restrictions, some drivers have resorted to creative solutions. For example, one driver attached a red cloth to his van to mimic a funeral vehicle, allowing him to transport passengers along Mazowe Road to Mt Darwin.
An anonymous kombi driver shared his frustration, saying, “We agree on speed limits as a way of reducing accidents, but the route limits have nothing to do with accidents. Several long-distance buses have been involved in road traffic accidents besides Kombis. To us, this move is a big threat to our source of living.”
The new regulations recall memories of the government’s previous intervention during the national lockdown starting in March 2020, when private kombis were banned to curb the spread of COVID-19. During that period, only the state-owned Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) buses were allowed to operate, enforcing stringent safety protocols such as social distancing, mandatory mask-wearing, and regular disinfection of vehicles.
The ban on private kombis during the lockdown created a significant void in the public transport sector. In response to the transport crisis, the government allowed private operators to register under the ZUPCO franchise. This arrangement was in place until the Ministry of Transport lifted the kombi ban on December 21, 2022. As kombi drivers continue to navigate the new restrictions, the ongoing debate highlights the broader challenges of balancing road safety with the economic realities of transport operators.
In other news – Lasizwe Dambuza celebrates as ‘Awkward Dates’ receives first nomination
Lasizwe Dambuza is celebrating a major milestone as his popular YouTube show, *Awkward Dates*, secures its first South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) nomination. Since its inception, the show has gained significant traction and acclaim, featuring a variety of high-profile guests from the South African entertainment industry, including notable personalities like Pearl Thusi, Ntando Duma, Mpho Popps, and Elaine.
In a heartfelt announcement on social media, Lasizwe shared his excitement and gratitude for the nomination. He posted: “Anddd….? WE ARE NOMINATED FOR THE SAFTAs!!!🥹🙏AWKWARD DATES is now a SAFTA nominee! Likes it sooo possible 😭🥹! I’m so grateful and happy haibo! To TD Media… I LOVE YOU GUYS SOOO MUCH! Well done!!! We are here now!!!” Read More
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