RESIDENTS of Cowdray Park in Bulawayo are reeling under steep kombi fare increases, with some operators charging up to US$2 for a single trip to the city centre.
Commuters told Southern Eye that the sudden hike has plunged the suburb in distress given that many families are already battling high living costs and find themselves spending a significant portion of their income on transport.
Ward 15 councillor Ashton Mhlanga confirmed that the local authority is aware of the situation, attributing the fare increase to ongoing traffic enforcement operations.
“I believe the fare increment is largely a result of the police operation. Many kombis are not operating because they have been impounded by the city council, VID and ZRP for various offences, including lack of proper documentation,” he said.
Mhlanga said the transport sector lacked a regulatory authority to monitor fare structures and ensure compliance.
“It is difficult for us as councillors to compel kombi operators to charge a specific fare because that falls outside our jurisdiction. What is needed is legislation from the Ministry of Transport to establish a regulatory authority to oversee the industry,” he said.
Ward 6 councillor Ashton Hove Mpofu expressed similar concerns, particularly for residents of Esgodweni, where kombis have reportedly reduced operations due to deteriorating road conditions.
“Kombis are no longer coming to Esgodweni because the road is in a poor state. The few that are operating are charging between US$1,50 and US$2 per trip,” he said.
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Mpofu called for urgent engagement among stakeholders to find a lasting solution.
Ward 28 councillor Ntando Ndlovu described the increase in fares from R10 to as much as US$1 or R15 as unjustified and exploitative.
“As a councillor, I am deeply concerned by the sudden and unreasonable hike in kombi fares. This places an unfair burden on already struggling residents,” he said.
Ndlovu called on residents to report operators who arbitrarily increase fares to relevant authorities, including the police.
“We have formally referred this matter to transport companies that signed service level agreements with the City of Bulawayo.
“These agreements clearly outline expected conduct, fare structure and operational routes. Any operator violating these terms will be engaged through their parent companies and regulatory structures,” he said.
Ndlovu added that the city’s public transport policy sought to curb chaotic competition among kombis, which often led to fare manipulation and disorder.
He called for full implementation of the policy with the support of operators, residents and enforcement agencies.
Meanwhile, residents say the situation has left them financially strained and frustrated.
“It was better when we had Zimbabwe United Passenger Company buses. The fares were always reasonable. Now the prices are unimaginable and we are forced to board kombis at high prices because we risk getting late for work,” said Monica Khumalo.
Thomas Gumede echoed the same sentiments, saying transport costs have become unbearable.
“We are now working for the kombis because half of our salaries goes towards fares,” he said.
Some drivers, however, defended the increases, citing operational challenges and police enforcement.
“Our circumstances force us to increase prices. With many people wanting to board, we are compelled to adjust fares,” said taxi driver Thobani Dube.
