Govt Targets Rogue Transport Operators

The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Hon. Felix Mhona, has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to restoring order in Zimbabwe’s urban transport sector through coordinated enforcement measures and long-term infrastructure development.

Speaking during the 2026 Pre-Budget Seminar presentation in Bulawayo, Minister Mhona outlined a series of actions being implemented to tackle the growing menace of illegal transport operators, popularly known as mushika-shika.

“The Ministry is working closely with the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage and the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works to ensure full compliance with transport regulations,” he said.

The enforcement initiative seeks to eliminate unregistered operators, strengthen traffic management, and enhance public safety across urban roads.

“We are determined to bring sanity to our roads and ensure that the commuting public travels safely and in an orderly environment,” Minister Mhona stated.

As part of a sustainable solution, the Minister revealed that Government is developing an integrated mass bus transit system to modernize urban transport.

The project, spearheaded by his Ministry, aims to expand the availability of reliable, affordable, and safe public transport while easing congestion in major cities.

Hon. Mhona further noted that resolving the Ministry’s broader challenges, together with those of its parastatals, requires a comprehensive and well-coordinated approach.

This includes improving resource mobilization, boosting institutional efficiency, and implementing strategic interventions that align with the country’s infrastructure development goals.

The Ministry identified Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs), retained revenues, user fees, and fines as key financing mechanisms for both ongoing and future transport projects. These measures are expected to improve the sustainability and service delivery capacity of Zimbabwe’s transport system.

Minister Mhona also expressed gratitude to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Infrastructure Development for its continued collaboration and oversight, describing the partnership as vital in achieving the nation’s vision of a resilient, inclusive, and modern transport network.

“Through strong collaboration and shared commitment, we can build a transport system that supports economic growth, connects communities, and enhances the quality of life for all Zimbabweans,” Hon. Mhona added.

The Government’s comprehensive strategy reflects its broader agenda under Vision 2030, which prioritises efficient infrastructure, sustainable urban development, and improved public services as drivers of national progress.