Residents of Cowdray Park in Bulawayo are facing mounting transport costs following a sudden increase in kombi fares, prompting criticism from Ward 28 councillor Ntando Ndlovu.
The fare hikes come after recent fuel price adjustments linked to a global increase driven by conflict in the Middle East.
Cowdray Park, one of Bulawayo’s largest and most densely populated suburbs, has been particularly affected, with reports that some operators are deliberately targeting the area with inflated fares.
“As a councillor, I am deeply concerned by the sudden and unjustified increase in kombi fares from R10 to as high as US$2 or US$1.50. This is not only exploitative but also places an unfair burden on already struggling residents,” Ndlovu said.
He said the practice “borders on criminality” and urged residents to report operators hiking fares arbitrarily to the Zimbabwe Republic Police and other authorities.
According to Ndlovu, part of the problem is caused by kombis operating outside their designated routes in search of higher profits.
“Operators must operate only in their designated areas. The current situation where some kombis abandon their routes to chase high-demand corridors for profit is unacceptable,” he said.
“Many of the kombis charging these inflated fares are originating from 6th Avenue and moving into areas not allocated to them, including Cowdray Park.”
The issue has been escalated to the City of Bulawayo and transport operators bound by service agreements.
“We have formally referred this matter to the transport companies that signed Service Level Agreements with the City of Bulawayo,” Ndlovu said.
“These agreements clearly outline expected conduct, fare structures and operational routes. Any operator violating these terms will be engaged through their parent companies and regulatory structures.”
He said the city’s public transport policy was designed to protect communities such as Cowdray Park from exploitation.
“The city’s public transport policy seeks to reduce chaotic competition among kombis, which often leads to fare manipulation and disorder. Full implementation of this policy, with the support of operators, residents and enforcement agencies, will bring stability,” he said.
In response to complaints, an urgent meeting has been called with transport operators servicing the area.
“We have called for an urgent meeting with chairpersons of the five transport entities operating in these areas to address fare increases, route violations and passenger exploitation,” Ndlovu said.
He added that transport companies would be required to formalise their obligations to residents.
“Transport companies are expected to sign social contracts with residents to ensure accountability and fair service delivery,” he said.
Ndlovu said action would be taken against offenders.
“Our position is clear: public transport must serve the people, not prey on them. We will continue engaging stakeholders and enforcing agreements to ensure fares return to reasonable levels.”