By Loyd Matare
The Passengers Association of Zimbabwe has raised alarm over escalating urban commuter fares in Harare, accusing operators of exploiting passengers and urging government to restore a regulated fare system.
Speaking to AfroGazette News, PAZ national coordinator Tafadzwa Goliati said the situation has become untenable as operators arbitrarily adjust fares despite stable economic fundamentals.
“As the Passengers Association of Zimbabwe, we appeal to the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works to urgently introduce fare tables for short-distance transport so that the Zimbabwe Republic Police can enforce the gazetted fare table,” Goliati said.
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“The fare table was removed during the inflation era and has never been corrected to date.”
Goliati accused some commuter omnibus operators of “acting ungratefully” after being allowed back onto the roads.
“Despite challenging the monopoly, they’re now overcharging passengers.
“Fuel and spare prices are stable, yet fares keep rising. Most commuters are struggling with these hikes,” he said.
He noted that current fares have strayed far from traditional rates:
- Mabvuku–Tafara: $1 normal, $1.50 peak
- Warren Park: should be $0.50, now $1
- Mapisa: should be $0.50, now $1
- Glen Norah: $1 normal, now $1.50
- Chitungwiza: $1.50–$2 peak, plus an extra $0.50–$1 during rain
- Long routes such as Norton–Harare and Seke Dema–Harare charge $1 for 38–40km
“These increases are punishing ordinary people.
“What about parents with school children who commute daily, and then commute to work themselves?” he asked.
“We just want fair urban fares nothing more, nothing less. Justice for commuters!”
Goliati insisted regulation is the only lasting solution:
“A gazetted fare table protects both commuters and honest operators. Without it, chaos wins.”
