Zimbabwe is preparing to expand its public transport fleet with the arrival of 700 new buses under a government-backed initiative designed to improve urban mobility, reduce commuter hardships and restore order within the public transport sector.
The Zimbabwe Passenger Transport Organisation (ZPTO) has confirmed that the first consignment of 200 buses is already en route from China, while an additional 500 buses are currently being manufactured. The project is being driven by private sector investors working in collaboration with local authorities and supported by government policy measures.
According to ZPTO, the programme is intended to address growing transport shortages in major cities, particularly Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare and Masvingo, where demand for public transport has outpaced available services. The organisation noted that while rural and intercity routes remain relatively stable, urban commuters continue to face limited transport options and rising fares.
ZPTO chairman Dr Samson Nhanhanga said preparations are underway for the deployment of the new buses.
“The first batch of 200 buses has departed China. We expect them very soon, and we also have 500 buses that are still under production,” said Dr Nhanhanga.
He explained that the organisation is shifting greater focus toward urban transport after years of concentrating mainly on intercity and rural operations.
As part of the initiative, the new fleet will operate under a unified branding system and a centrally managed route network. The model is expected to improve efficiency and help curb the activities of illegal touting syndicates that have long disrupted operations at bus ranks and imposed unofficial charges on transport operators.
“Currently, we are struggling with touts who charge us 10 percent and do not pay tax because there is no order,” Dr Nhanhanga said.
The programme has received further support through fiscal measures introduced by the Government. Earlier this year, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube removed import duty on public service buses through Statutory Instrument 74 of 2026.
The measure aims to lower acquisition costs for operators, encourage fleet renewal and help shield commuters from fare increases linked to global fuel price fluctuations.
Authorities believe the tax relief will not only improve transport services but also complement long-term plans to strengthen Zimbabwe’s vehicle manufacturing and assembly industry.
Meanwhile, the City of Harare is positioning itself to accommodate the incoming buses as part of broader efforts to modernise the capital’s transport system. Speaking during a recent council meeting, Harare Mayor Councillor Jacob Mafume said the city was keen to adopt efficient public transport models similar to those observed during an international forum in Azerbaijan.
“They have a beautiful bus transport system, and we want to adopt that transport system. We met some people who have bought 200 buses,” said Mafume.
The mayor urged council officials to accelerate planning and negotiations to ensure the city is ready for the expanded fleet. He acknowledged past criticism over inadequate public transport services and welcomed private sector investment in the sector, saying it presents an opportunity to improve mobility and create a more reliable transport network for residents.
The arrival of the new buses is expected to significantly increase transport capacity, ease commuter challenges and contribute to a more organised and affordable urban transport system across Zimbabwe.
