By Loyd Matare
The Passengers Association of Zimbabwe (PAZ) has urged parents to step up vigilance and prioritise the safety of children who rely on public transport to get to school daily.
This comes amid growing concerns over rising cases of exploitation of minors by rogue kombi and mushikashika crews, with many learners forced into overcrowded, unsafe vehicles due to financial constraints and limited transport options.
Speaking to AfroGazette News, PAZ national coordinator Tafadzwa Goliati said the association is alarmed by increasing reports of young passengers being mistreated.
He said the situation has become dire, with children enduring overcrowding, harassment and unsafe travel conditions every morning.
“As the Passengers Association of Zimbabwe, we’re appealing to parents with children who travel to school daily via kombis and buses, please give them enough money for bus fare to avoid abuse from crews who take advantage,” Goliati said.
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“We are receiving more reports of kids being shouted at, pushed, or dumped midway because they don’t have enough fare. It’s happening, and it’s getting worse…parents must act now.”
Goliati also said parents must build relationships with transport providers and know the crews operating vehicles their children use.
“It’s advisable to know your transporter and their crews.
“As PAZ, we can even assist you in setting up a transport committee in your area to help monitor the safety of your children,” he said.
He further stressed that safety must come first.
“Parents should ask for compliance papers from operators and involve the police for background checks where necessary.
” This proactive approach is key to protecting learners from harm,” Goliati added.
