The Passenger Association of Zimbabwe (PAZ) has raised alarm over the growing disregard for designated bus termini by some commuter omnibus (kombi) operators, who continue to pick up and drop off passengers at unauthorized spots while shifting the blame onto commuters.
This comes as the City of Harare continues to be marred by worsening transport disorder, infrastructure decay, and a glaring lack of enforcement.
A survey conducted by PAZ across Harare’s older suburbs paints a grim picture: former bus ranks now lie derelict, overgrown with weeds, strewn with litter, and stripped of critical infrastructure—clear signs of neglect by local authorities.
Despite these conditions, kombi operators remain subject to municipal levies, raising serious questions about how the collected funds are being utilized.
“The infrastructure exists, but it’s rotting away,” said Tafadzwa Goliati, PAZ National Coordinator.
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“Local authorities are still collecting revenue from operators, yet there’s no corresponding investment in services.
“It’s clear their priority is generating income—not ensuring order or safety for passengers.”
Goliati criticized both local authorities and operators, calling for urgent enforcement of existing transport regulations.
“As PAZ, we encourage associations to return to the old ranks. The facilities are there, but what’s lacking is enforcement and political will. We need order in the transport sector,” he said.
The system of designated ranks was introduced to bring structure to Harare’s chaotic commuter scene.
When properly implemented, it helps decongest traffic and offers a safer, more dignified commuting experience.
But according to Goliati, that vision has deteriorated into a “perpetual blame game,” with no one taking responsibility.
“There’s a stark lack of innovation. Authorities are more focused on attending endless workshops and making speeches than fixing the broken system.
“Meanwhile, passengers are treated like human refuse at rundown termini,” he added.
For many commuters, the situation has gone beyond inconvenience—it’s become a daily struggle for dignity and safety.
Passengers are routinely picked up in unsafe zones, often in the middle of traffic or in poorly lit areas.
“Its high time passengers are treated with the same respect afforded to airline passengers at airports,” Goliati urged.
While commuter associations remain nominally aligned with city regulations, PAZ insists that enforcement of the rules is not only possible—it’s essential.
