Police officers and Vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID) officials who were manning a roadblock that cleared the Urban Connect bus involved in a recent fatal accident in Beitbridge are now under investigation to determine why they allowed the bus to continue on its ill-fated journey, reported <a href="https://www.heraldonline.co.zw/beitbridge-crash-police-vid-officers-under-investigation/">HeraldOnline</a>.
This follows the suspension of Urban Connect Holdings’ operating licence for six months by Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona, after a tragic head-on collision with a haulage truck on the Beitbridge-Masvingo highway that claimed 28 lives.
The suspension was due to several violations, including the bus lacking a valid passenger insurance policy and route permit, as well as the driver failing to meet the re-test requirement.
In response to concerns raised by legislators about police officers permitting unroadworthy buses to pass through roadblocks, Mhona asserted that moving forward, officials manning roadblocks will be held accountable for neglecting their duties and allowing such buses to pass unchecked. He said:
<blockquote>
It is saddening that we have our people manning roads and we actually speak to those supervising roadblocks.
So, I have engaged my counterpart, the Minister of Home Affairs, to say that police and VID officials will be held accountable if they allow buses to pass through manned roadblocks and are subsequently involved in accidents.
</blockquote>
Urban Connect bus, carrying 65 passengers, collided head-on with an Auro Transport haulage truck, which had four occupants, near Lutumba Toll Gate at around 8 AM on Thursday, February 13.
The accident occurred as the bus attempted to overtake another vehicle. The bus was travelling from Harare to Beitbridge, while the truck was heading in the opposite direction.

Pindula News

Police and VID officials are being investigated for allowing a bus involved in a fatal accident in Beitbridge to continue its journey. The bus, operated by Urban Connect Holdings, collided with a haulage truck, resulting in the deaths of 28 people. The bus had several violations, including lacking insurance and permits, and the driver did not meet requirements. The Minister of Transport suspended the company's license for six months. Moving forward, officials at roadblocks will be held accountable for allowing unsafe buses to pass. The accident happened when the bus tried to overtake another vehicle.

Police And VID Under Investigation Over Fatal Urban Connect Bus Accident

The death toll from the road traffic accident that occurred on February 13 along the Masvingo-Beitbridge Road, near the Lutumba tollgate at the 262-kilometre mark, has risen to 28.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the update in a statement posted on its X page, which reads as follows:
<blockquote>
Reference is made to the ZRP press statement released on 21/02/24 on a fatal road traffic accident which occurred on 13/02/24 at the 262 kilometre peg along Masvingo-Beitbridge Road, Lutumba. The death toll has risen to 28. Two victims, a man and woman, are yet to be identified.
</blockquote>
An Urban Connect bus, carrying 65 passengers, collided head-on with an Auro Transport haulage truck, which had four occupants, near Lutumba Toll Gate at around 8 AM on Thursday, February 13.
The accident occurred as the bus attempted to overtake another vehicle. The bus was travelling from Harare to Beitbridge, while the truck was heading in the opposite direction.
In response to the incident, Felix Mhona, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, suspended Urban Connect Holdings Pvt Ltd from operating its omnibuses on all routes for six months.
Mhona said that the company was not in compliance with the country’s road traffic and safety regulations, leading to the temporary suspension of its operations.

A bus accident in Zimbabwe killed 28 people. The accident happened when an Urban Connect bus crashed into a truck near Lutumba Toll Gate. The bus was trying to pass another vehicle. The Minister of Transport suspended Urban Connect Holdings Pvt Ltd from operating for six months because they didn't follow safety rules. The police are still trying to identify two victims of the accident. The accident happened on the Masvingo-Beitbridge Road on February 13.

Urban Connect Bus Accident Death Toll Climbs To 28

The death toll from the road traffic accident that occurred on February 13 along the Masvingo-Beitbridge Road, near the Lutumba tollgate at the 262-kilometre mark, has increased to 26.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, announced on Friday that a female adult, who had been hospitalised at Parirenyatwa Hospital with injuries from the accident, succumbed to her injuries on February 19, 2025. Added Nyathi:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is appealing to the public to assist in identifying two remaining victims who died in the fatal road traffic accident.
The first unidentified victim is a male adult who was wearing a red t-shirt and black trousers at the time of the accident. The second victim is a female adult who was wearing a black jersey and black trousers.
Anyone with information should report to the nearest police station or contact the National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631 or WhatsApp 0712 800 197.
</blockquote>

A bus accident in Zimbabwe killed 26 people. The police are trying to identify two victims. One is a man in a red shirt and black pants, and the other is a woman in a black shirt and black pants. The police are asking for help from the public to identify them. If anyone has information, they should go to a police station or call the National Complaints Desk.

Urban Connect Bus Accident Death Toll Climbs To 26, Two Victims Remain Unidentified

The dire state of Zimbabwe’s healthcare system was starkly exposed last week following a tragic bus accident in Beitbridge.
Victims of the crash, which resulted in 25 fatalities and dozens of injuries, were photographed at a local hospital with broken bones held together by makeshift casts made from cardboard, sellotape, and cloth.
The accident occurred last Thursday when a speeding Beitbridge-bound Urban Connect bus collided head-on with a haulage truck carrying magnesium to Chirundu near the Lutumba toll gate on the Beitbridge-Masvingo highway.
Images shared online depicted the victims lying helplessly while medical staff, working tirelessly, tried to save lives under incredibly difficult conditions.
Transport Minister Felix Tapiwa Mhona, Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe, and Matabeleland South Provincial Minister Eveline Ndlovu visited Beitbridge District Hospital, where they were photographed with the accident victims.
The sight of accident victims’ limbs being held together with cardboard and tape during a photo op was widely condemned as a heartless public relations stunt.
Further investigation revealed that the Urban Connect bus was operating without a valid route permit, and the driver did not have a valid retest certificate.
Renowned lawyer and former Mt Pleasant MP, Advocate Fadzayi Mahere, sharply criticized the government for neglecting the health sector. She said:
<blockquote>
We are not letting this healthcare issue go. Why is the practice of using makeshift cardboard boxes to treat fractures so widespread in our public hospitals? Where is the dignity?
Surely, you must all resign. This level of incompetence borders on the criminal. It’s a mess. We need new leaders.
</blockquote>
In another post on X on Sunday, February 16, 2025, Mahere criticized the government for its failure to provide basic supplies in hospitals. She wrote:
<blockquote>
They promised us affordable, quality healthcare. Instead, they have given us cardboard boxes to use as casts to treat fractures, no clean water in public hospitals, torn hospital beds and no medication. It’s a mess.
</blockquote>
ZANU PF loyalist Kudzai Mutisi, based in South Africa, also weighed in, criticizing his own party’s ministers as ineffective and incapable of providing even the most basic services to the people. He said:
<blockquote>
A Cabinet Minister is witnessing FIRST HAND how his colleague in the Ministry of Health and Child Care has FAILED to do simple things. Felix Mhona will leave the hospital and SAY NOTHING about a dysfunctional system he witnessed.
In fact, he might join the 2030ists asking for more time to play. If you can’t do it now, then you certainly won’t do it even if given 40 more years. The current team of ministers lacks urgency and has misplaced priorities.
</blockquote>

Last week, a bus accident in Zimbabwe left 25 people dead and many injured. Photos showed victims in the hospital with broken bones held together by cardboard, tape, and cloth. The bus was operating without the proper permits and the driver did not have a valid certificate. Many people, including a lawyer and a ZANU PF loyalist, criticized the government for neglecting the healthcare system. They said the use of makeshift casts was unacceptable and that new leaders were needed to fix the problems in hospitals. The sight of accident victims with cardboard casts sparked outrage among the public.

Pictures Of Hospitalised Urban Connect Bus Accident Victims In "Cardboard Casts" Spark Public Outrage

<h2>Statement by Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi on the Urban Connect Bus Accident accident:</h2>
<blockquote>
UPDATE ON A FATAL ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENT AT THE 262 KM PEG ALONG MASVINGO-BEITBRIDGE ROAD, LUTUMBA
Reference is to the Zimbabwe Republic Police press statement released on 13th February 2025 on a fatal road traffic accident at the 262-kilometre peg along Masvingo-Beitbridge Road, near Lutumba Tollgate.
The death toll has risen to 25.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police releases the names of 22 of the 25 victims who were identified by their next of kin as listed:-
<ul>
<li>Gwiba Kezias (51), a male adult of Stoneridge, Harare,</li>
<li>Mudzingwa Origin (47), a male adult of Sese Village, Masvingo,</li>
<li>Tsitsi Mukaro, a female adult of Dulibadzimu, Beitbridge,</li>
<li>Emma Mukaro, a female adult of at Dulibadzimu, Beitbridge,</li>
<li>Punich Masvenhise (45), a male adult of SDP, Beitbridge,</li>
<li>Richard Kandororo (37), a male adult of Marindale, Norton,</li>
<li>Vincent Bvumbe (35), a male adult of Shule Shule, Beitbridge,</li>
<li>Petronella Murungweni (26), a female adult of Mashavire, Beitbridge,</li>
<li>Jeke Paradzai (46), a male adult of Glen Norah, Harare,</li>
<li>Abell Rumbwere, a male adult of Mashavire, Beitbridge,</li>
<li>Melissa Jackson (21), a female adult of Warren Park, Harare,</li>
<li>Natasha Tembo, a female adult of SDP, Beitbridge,</li>
<li>Gilbert Gwinyai Mafi, a male adult of Mbare, Harare,</li>
<li>Elizabeth Mauto (48), a female adult of Seke, Chitungwiza,</li>
<li>Faustina Zhakata Chibamu, a female adult of Budiriro 5, Harare,</li>
<li>Mutsekwa Josphine, a female adult of Dulibadzimu, Beitbridge,</li>
<li>Mollicious Kahanda (37), a female adult of Holiday Inn, Beitbridge,</li>
<li>Douglous Mandira (43), a male adult of Marlborough, Harare,</li>
<li>Angela Tembo, a female adult of SDP, Beitbridge,</li>
<li>Taziva Nyashega a male adult of Hatcliffe, Harare,</li>
<li>Elton Marima, a male adult of Old Medium, Beitbridge.</li>
</ul>
29 injured passengers are receiving treatment at Beitbridge District Hospital while two others are admitted at Gwanda Provincial Hospital and the other 13 victims were transferred to United Bulawayo Group of Hospitals for further medical attention.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is appealing to the public to assist in identifying the remaining three victims.
Meanwhile, the Police urge drivers to be responsible on the roads, promote road safety and avoid overtaking in situations which are clearly not safe to do so.
</blockquote>
NB: The ZRP stated that only 3 of the 25 victims have yet to be identified. However, in the statement above, the ZRP identified 21 victims, not 22, as one of them, Jeke Paradzai (46), was listed twice.

A bus accident in Zimbabwe killed 25 people. The police have named 21 victims so far. Some are getting medical help in hospitals. The police are asking for help to identify 3 more victims. They want drivers to be careful and not take risks on the road. It's important to drive safely to avoid accidents. One person was listed twice by mistake in the names released by the police. The accident happened on the Masvingo-Beitbridge road near Lutumba Tollgate.

Police Name 21 Urban Connect Bus Accident Victims

Felix Mhona, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, is contemplating revoking the licence of Urban Connect Bus Service following a tragic accident near Beitbridge on Thursday, which resulted in the deaths of 25 people.
While speaking at a Government-led joint funeral service for the victims in Beitbridge on Friday, Mhona condemned the bus driver for reckless behaviour, suggesting that it may have contributed to the deadly crash. He said:
<blockquote>
Why was he racing towards the toll gate? We may have to remove them from service.
</blockquote>
It has also emerged that the bus driver’s retest expired in 2021, and the bus had no route permit.
Mhona also urged Zimbabweans to refrain from recording videos at accident scenes and to wait for official communication. He said:
<blockquote>
Let’s have respect for the dead and wait for proper transmission of messages. We are likely to cause more harm than good. We will investigate the causes of this accident and act.
</blockquote>
According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the accident occurred at the 262-kilometre peg along the Masvingo-Beitbridge Road, near Lutumba Toll Gate, around 8 AM on Thursday, 13 February.
An Urban Connect bus, carrying 65 passengers, collided head-on with an Auro Transport haulage truck that had four occupants on board.
The crash occurred when the bus attempted to overtake another vehicle. The bus was en route from Harare to Beitbridge, while the truck was travelling in the opposite direction.

The government might take away Urban Connect Bus Service's license after a terrible accident near Beitbridge where 25 people died. The Minister of Transport is upset with the bus driver for driving recklessly. The bus driver's qualifications were expired, and the bus didn't have the correct permit. The police say the accident happened when the bus tried to pass another car and crashed into a truck. The Minister is asking people not to film accidents and to wait for official information. The government will investigate and take action.

Govt Considers Revoking Urban Connect Bus License After Beitbridge Accident

Felix Mhona, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, has expressed sorrow over the death of seven people in a road traffic accident that occurred at Kuwadzana 7 turn-off in Harare on Thursday morning.
Seven people were killed and four others injured when the driver of a commuter omnibus (kombi) failed to give way at traffic lights and collided with a haulage truck. Said Mhona:
<blockquote>
On behalf of the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development and on my own behalf, I convey our heartfelt condolences to all the bereaved families. We mourn the demise of young men and women who perished in this crash.
Our thoughts are with all the families of the people who were killed in the crash and our prayers are with those injured as they continue to receive treatment and care. We wish them speedy recuperation.
</blockquote>
Mhona said the accident is yet another call to all transport operators, motorists, and members of the public to adhere to road traffic rules and exercise caution on the road. He added:
<blockquote>
Whilst the traffic lights at the intersection were working, it is concerning to note that the driver of the commuter omnibus proceeded when he was supposed to stop.
This was reckless and thus a blatant violation of our road traffic rules and regulations. Consequently, the driver is being charged with culpable homicide.
I wish to remind and warn all transport operators, motorists, and members of the public that the Ministry will take stern measures to preserve the safety and security of the commuting public.
</blockquote>
Culpable homicide refers to the unlawful killing of another person without intent to kill but with a degree of negligence or recklessness. It is categorised as a less severe charge than murder, as it may involve circumstances where the perpetrator did not have the explicit intention to cause death.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A Kombi driver in Kuwadzana caused an accident that killed seven people. The Minister of Transport expressed sadness. The driver did not follow traffic rules and is being charged with culpable homicide. This means he caused death due to negligence. People need to drive safely to avoid accidents like this. The government will take action to keep people safe on the road. We should all remember to follow the rules when driving.

Kombi Driver In Kuwadzana Accident Charged With Culpable Homicide

Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Felix Mhona said the government is exploring a project to introduce tram systems in major Zimbabwean cities as a long-term solution to address traffic congestion.
Trams are electric-powered streetcars running on fixed rail tracks, providing an efficient urban transit option. 
During a recent question-and-answer session in the National Assembly, Mhona said tram systems will provide a more effective public transportation infrastructure for commuters. He said (via <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/government-mulls-trams-as-part-of-bold-plan-to-tame-traffic-chaos/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>):
<blockquote>
As Government and Public Works that work with the local authorities, they oversee urban transport systems to provide efficient transport. Right now, we have plans to ensure that we get bigger buses to provide transport to the people.
So, our long-term plan is to provide trams that are like small trains. We have the railway lines, that will provide transport to people in Mabvuku, Norton and Chitungwiza.
This will be easy for people who may want to leave their vehicles and use those public transport systems. So, that plan is not a very long-term plan. It will be used very soon.
</blockquote>
However, Mhona did not provide details on the feasibility and modalities of implementing the tram system in Zimbabwe.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe is thinking about adding trams in big cities to help with traffic jams. Trams are like small trains that run on electric power. The government wants to improve public transportation with trams. Minister Mhona mentioned plans to have trams in Mabvuku, Norton, and Chitungwiza. This will make it easier for people to leave their cars and use public transportation. But, they didn't say how they will make this happen yet. Trams could be a solution to the traffic problems faced by Zimbabwean cities.

Zimbabwe Considers Trams As A Solution To Urban Traffic Woes

The government has revised the radius-based restrictions for kombis, reducing the limit from 120 km to 60 km, effective September 3, 2024, for operators seeking new permits.
In a statement released on the same day, Felix Mhona, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, explained that the new regulations aim to reduce road traffic accidents involving kombis.
Mhona also said kombis operating within the 60 km radius must be equipped with speed limiting and monitoring devices to ensure safety.
The Minister condemned the practice of kombis and mushikashika picking up and dropping passengers at non-designated locations, which damages the shoulders of recently refurbished roads. Below is the statement in full:
<blockquote>
STATEMENT ON THE REVIEW AND IMPLEMENTATION OF RADIUS-BASED RESTRICTIONS FOR KOMBIS FROM THE CURRENT 120 KM TO 60 KM
As the Ministry endeavours to mitigate against road traffic crashes involving kombis, a policy position has been taken to review the current radius-based restrictions for kombis on the issuance of route permits from 120 km to 60 km with effect from the 3rd of September 2024 for operators seeking new permits.
This is one of the many robust policies, regulatory and administrative mechanisms being adopted to improve the country’s road safety regime.
Thus, it implies that all 26-seater kombis and below, will be restricted to offer transport services within a radius of distances not exceeding 60 km.
We urge all commuters travelling beyond the 60 km radius to use transport services offered by high-capacity buses.
These buses are more predictable, reliable, comfortable and more consistent than the quality of service offered by kombis on long-distance routes.
Buses also have greater leg space and baggage space for long distance travellers than kombis, which makes buses more ideal for long-distance journeys.
Further, the kombis operating within the 60 km radius are prohibited from operating without installation of speed limiting and monitoring devices in terms of Section 3 (1) of Statutory Instrument 118 of 2023, which prescribes that no person shall operate or drive on any road, a passenger public service vehicle registered in Zimbabwe, unless both of the devices are fitted to the vehicle.
All inspection officers should adhere to this law and ensure that no kombi operator, driver or owner is issued with a certificate of fitness unless both devices are so fitted to the kombis.
All law enforcement officers should ensure that all kombis are in compliance as prescribed by the law.
The Ministry has also noted with concern that the kombis and unauthorized vehicles (mushika-shika) are picking and dropping passengers on non-designated points, thereby causing damage to the shoulders of the roads, most of which we have recently refurbished, with clearly designated picking and dropping points.
The Ministry calls upon all enforcement officers to be diligent and ensure that all kombis and authorized public service vehicles pick from and drop passengers on designated bus stops.
In view of the above, kombi operators will be issued with Route Permits to offer passenger transport services for a maximum distance of 60 km.
The Route Permits issued before this Statement will remain valid and shall continue to be legal documents until their validity has expired.
However, with immediate effect, the Ministry will not tolerate any kombi which operates without the speed limiting and monitoring devices.
I wish to make a clarion call to all our stakeholders of the road traffic ecosystem, including motorists, transport operators and passengers to be more vigilant against road traffic violations, especially over speeding, overloading and the use of unroadworthy vehicles.
All these violations are serious offences and acts of negligence; thus, drivers and transport operators will be held accountable for such actions which are contrary to their legal and moral obligation for the safety of all road users.
The Ministry rallies all traffic law enforcement agencies, road traffic safety actors, motorists and road users to collaborate against road fatalities.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government has made new rules for kombis, reducing how far they can go to 60 km. This change is to make the roads safer and reduce accidents. Kombis in the 60 km limit must have devices to control their speed. The government is also telling people not to get on kombis and mushikashikas at wrong places because it damages roads. Anyone caught breaking these rules will be punished. It is important for everyone to follow the new rules to keep everyone safe on the roads.

Govt Reduces Kombi Radius To 60 km; Speed Limiters And Monitors Required For All Kombis

Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Felix Mhona has said that any vehicle involved in an accident after passing through a manned roadblock would result in the accountability of the police officers and/or Vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID) officials manning the roadblock.
Mhona made this statement in response to a question from Manicaland Senator Jane Chitsamba, who had inquired about the Ministry’s efforts to address the surge in road carnage.
In recent weeks, dozens of people have been killed in several accidents across the country, with some of the accidents attributed to unroadworthy vehicles. Said Mhona (via <a href="https://cite.org.zw/traffic-cops-to-be-held-liable-for-accidents/">CITE</a>):
<blockquote>
It is quite saddening that over 26 precious lives were lost in June alone, with over 56 people injured.
We are taking serious measures in terms of mitigatory actions as a Ministry, but this calls for a holistic approach.
Where we have witnessed recklessness, where we did not preserve the sanctity of life on our roads, where others are driving under the influence of alcohol, and through the enforcement agents, we have said if a vehicle passes through a manned checkpoint and is involved in an accident, the officials are accountable.
Not only that, even the operators of those buses. So we are not only charging the drivers.
</blockquote>
Mhona revealed that in all reported accidents, the vehicles did not have certificates of fitness, indicating they were unfit for the road. He said:
<blockquote>
So we cannot continue to watch. We cannot continue to allow such anarchy and lawlessness on our roads. We are tabling a very deterrent Statutory Instrument (SI) to address such malpractices.
We are witnessing 2,000 lives lost per annum in this small country of Zimbabwe. We cannot continue to have such an alarming number.
I want to assure the august House that we will not rest on our laurels as a Ministry, but will continue to appeal to this august House for deterrent measures.
</blockquote>
According to the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ), from January to May 2024, the country had a total of 21,183 road crashes, resulting in 860 fatalities and injuring 4,350 people.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Minister of Transport in Zimbabwe said that if a vehicle gets into an accident after passing through a roadblock, the police officers at the roadblock will be responsible. This decision was made after many accidents in the country where people died. The Minister also mentioned that many accidents happen because vehicles are not safe to be on the road. He emphasized the need to create laws to prevent accidents and save lives. In the first five months of 2024, there were over 21,000 road accidents in Zimbabwe, causing over 800 deaths. The Minister promised to take action to make the roads safer.

Police Officers Manning Roadblocks To Be Held Liable For Accidents, Says Minister Of Transport

The government has cancelled the operating permit of Passion Link Coaches after one of its buses was involved in an accident that claimed the lives of eight Anglican Diocese of Manicaland members on Sunday evening.
The accident near Gandanzara Business Centre, about 44 kilometres along the Nyabadza-Gandanzara Road.
The Anglican church members were returning from their Bernard Mzeki shrine in Marondera when the bus caught fire resulting in eight people being burnt beyond recognition while eleven others were injured, three of them seriously.
They were travelling to their rural homes in Sherukuru in Mutasa District, Manicaland Province.
<a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/update-govt-cancels-passion-link-bus-licence/">The Manica Post</a> reported that the bus experienced several mechanical faults along the way, including a faulty clutch.
On approaching the 26km peg along the road, passengers noticed some smoke coming out of the bus engine and alerted the driver – Ray Donald Mugari (40).
The driver stopped the bus to investigate the source of the smoke.
Mugari allegedly opened the engine cover located inside the bus near the passengers’ door, and immediately a fireball came out of the engine and quickly engulfed the whole bus.
The driver and other passengers escaped from the burning bus through the door and emergency exit windows but the eight were trapped inside, and burnt to death.
Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Felix Mhona, visited the scene of the accident on Sunday, before visiting the survivors at Rusape General Hospital.
He said the Government has revoked Passion Link Coaches’ operating licence with immediate effect after the owner admitted that the bus that was involved in the accident had no certificate of fitness. Said Mhona:
<blockquote>
The bus operator has openly admitted that the bus had no certificate of fitness, meaning it was not roadworthy.
A bus that does not have a certificate of fitness should not be used to ferry people, and the police will arrest both the bus owner and driver as part of the investigations.
The other buses from this company will not be allowed to ply our roads again with immediate effect.
We have cancelled their operating permit, which means we will not allow them to ply our roads to carry people.
If they had complied with the traffic laws, which do not allow buses without a certificate of fitness to ply our roads, this accident could have been avoided.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Cancels Passion Link Bus Licence After Accident Claims Lives Of 8 Anglican Pilgrims

The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development Felix Mhona has ordered Fossil Contracting to redo the resurfacing of Lorraine Drive road in Harare due to substandard work.
This came out during a Q and A session in the National Assembly, the lower house of Parliament, on Wednesday.
Mhona’s directive came in response to a public outcry about the road’s poor condition, even though it had been resurfaced recently.
Nyanga South MP, Supa Mandiwanzira (ZANU PF), in a supplementary question, said the state of Lorraine Drive did not show it was recently rehabilitated. He said (<a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/we-do-not-pay-when-work-is-not-done-properly-govt-orders-fossil-contracting-to-re-do-lorraine-drive/">via NewZimbabwe.com</a>):
<blockquote>
My supplementary question relates to the standard and quality of the roads that are being made. Because of the great work that is being done to fix and make the roads to this Parliament Building, we are now having to use some roads that we did not use often. We know that some of these roads were recently upgraded at the government’s pace.
For instance, this afternoon, I drove through Lorraine Drive, but the state of that road does not indicate that this road was recently upgraded.
Minister, to what extent is the ministry supervising the standard and the quality of the roads that are being built?
Are there funds being retained on the amounts that are due to the contractors that within a specific period, if the road does not stand or withstand the demands of time, those resources are used to fix those roads?
</blockquote>
In response to Mandiwanzira, Minister Mhona conceded that the contractor had done a shoddy job. He said:
<blockquote>
For the past weeks, it was topical during our debates and social media circulations where the road (Lorraine Drive) failed dismally.
As a ministry, we have summoned the contractor, who has also acknowledged that yes, the road failed.
For us, we are saying under the Second Republic, we do not pay when the work is not done properly.
We have instructed the contractor to work on the road and take corrective measures where the system failed and the type of bituminous products used collapsed.
Fossil has learnt from that experience and it is not the only road that the contractor has been working on. As we see, the contractor has been attending to several roads across the country.
The terrain and the nature of the soils and how the road collapsed are something that we interrogated.
We have agreed that the contractor will take remedial action. We are saying this because we have our engineers and the public is there to take us into account.
We are grateful that yes, we are making corrections and we endeavour, as we progress and construct our roads so that we do not have such a recurrence in terms of road maintenance.
</blockquote>
Mhona said Fossil is also working on Nemakonde Road (Lomagundi Road) and will revert to Lorraine Drive once the other one is done.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Condemns Shoddy Workmanship, Orders Fossil Contracting To Redo Lorraine Drive

Blue Circle and City Bus operations have been suspended with immediate effect after a horror crash involving coaches from the two companies claimed 13 lives and left scores injured along the Masvingo-Beitbridge Road on Saturday last week.
The collision occurred when a City Bus coach, carrying 25 passengers, struck a donkey and veered into the path of a Blue Circle bus with 43 passengers on board, leading to a head-on collision.
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development found the two buses had violated regulations on road traffic and safety management.
In a statement, Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Felix Mhona said that he had issued a directive to the Commissioner of Road Transportation to invoke provisions of Section 17(b)(i) of the Road Motor Transportation Act.
As a result, the licenses of Swaymo Enterprises Pvt Ltd (trading as Blue Circle) and Wipeco Investments (Pvt) Ltd (trading as City Bus) have been immediately suspended from operating their buses on all routes.
Minister Mhona said the City Bus vehicle, registration number AEU5845 and belonging to Wipeco Investments, did not have a valid certificate of fitness thus contravening Section 31 of the Road Traffic Act. He added:
<blockquote>
The vehicle also did not have a Speed Limiting Device as required by Section 3(1)(b) of Statutory Instrument 118 of 2023.
In addition, the driver of this bus did not have a valid defensive driving certificate issued by the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe in terms of Section 4(b) of Statutory Instrument 168 of 2006.
Swaymo Enterprises Pvt Ltd did not cooperate with our investigations to establish the compliance status of the driver and vehicle registration number AEU6763.
Therefore, our inference is that the driver was not compliant with the regulatory requirements prescribed under the above-mentioned statutes.
Similarly, the operator was not compliant with the same regulations including Section 12(1) of the Road Motor Transportation Act and thus did not have a route authority authorizing the bus to operate the service.
The above violations by the two bus operators are a serious breach of the terms and conditions of their operators’ licenses issued for them to operate in Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Passenger Transport Organisation (ZPTO) vice chairperson Leonard Mukumba told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/horror-crash-2-bus-operators-licences-suspended/">The Herald</a> that they had also suspended the two members as an association. He said:
<blockquote>
Sadly, two of our members Blue Circle and City Bus have been suspended for failing to comply with the basic road requirements to operate.
As an association, we commend the Government for suspending the two operators after their findings.
We have also suspended the two pending investigations. The two ceased to be our members the moment they failed to comply and were suspended by the Government.
We urge other members to make sure that they are operating within the confines of the law.
As we go into the Easter Holidays, we encourage authorities to take stern measures provided by our laws against those who wantonly and blatantly violate road traffic rules and regulations.
The safety and security of all commuting public cannot be taken for granted.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Blue Circle And City Bus Licenses Suspended

The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Felix Mhona, has ordered Simlex Transport and Logistics (Pvt) Ltd to suspend operations until the bus company is compliant with all relevant regulations.
This comes after one of the company’s coaches was involved in an accident on Saturday, 9 March, in Western Cape, South Africa, which resulted in the death of 13 Zimbabweans and injuries to 12 others.
The bus was travelling from Harare to Cape Town when it collided with a haulage truck along the Hex River Pass, approximately 140 kilometres before Cape Town.
Mhona said investigations have revealed that Simlex was not authorised to provide the service, therefore, the company will not be allowed to operate until it is fully compliant. He said:
<blockquote>
The accident is yet another call to all transport operators, motorists, and members of the public to adhere to road traffic rules and exercise caution on the road.
It is concerning to note that our investigations have revealed that the operator was not authorised to provide this service, thus, I have directed the Commissioner of Road Motor Transportation to implement relevant provisions of the Road Motor Transportation Act [Chapter 13:15], including, among others, suspension of operations until the operator is fully compliant with all the relevant regulatory and policy frameworks.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Western Cape Bus Accident: Transport Minister Orders Simlex To Suspend Operations

At least four Vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID) officers based at Chitungwiza Depot located at Makoni Shopping Centre are under probe for allegedly soliciting money from people acquiring driver’s licences and provisional (learner’s) licences.
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona and a team from his office visited the depot on Monday, 4 March unannounced after receiving messages and anonymous letters sent to his office alleging egregious corruption at the depot.
Mhona spoke to driving instructors and the public waiting to take their tests at the depot.
During the conversations, the names of the four examiners were continuously mentioned, prompting the minister to order investigations. Said Mhona (<a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/four-chitungwiza-vid-depot-officers-face-probe/">via The Herald</a>):
<blockquote>
This was a surprise visit here at Chitungwiza VID. The purpose of us coming here together with my team from the ministry and VID officials from head office was basically to drive and run with the vision of His Excellency Cde Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa that we don’t tolerate corruption in this land.
So we are here to demonstrate to the people of Zimbabwe that whenever we say we have a listening President, he is saying I want you to go and descend on VID.
Why VID? Because several anonymous letters were coming through stating we have problematic officers but I said at times you need to be on the ground to hear for yourself.
So I came here unannounced to engage the officials and the stakeholders who are very important as they deal with issues of testing.
As you have seen, I have engaged with the citizenry, those who were waiting to be tested for the provisional licences and also for the certificate of competency, which is the road test, and also the stakeholders — the instructors.
But you know the problem is it takes two to tango and at the end of the day you have seen that whenever you address people on issues of corruption at times the people don’t open up, but eventually if you engage them bilaterally you hear more.
</blockquote>
Mhona said the officers were likely to be moved from the depot as investigations continued. He said:
<blockquote>
My team is going to engage and interrogate and also carry out engagements with the officers who have been named and shamed.
And we are saying in the meantime, come this week, we are going to be moving those officials from here so that they don’t continue victimising our people.
</blockquote>
A local businessman and founder of Ring Driving School Onias Sanangura thanked Mhono for engaging stakeholders, saying they will go a long way in eradicating corruption.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Four "Corrupt" Chitungwiza VID Depot Examiners Face Probe

The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Felix Mhona, said that the rehabilitation of the Harare-Chirundu road will cost more than half a million United States dollars.
Responding to questions from the media during the launch of the project in Harare earlier this week, Mhona said the project should be completed within the next 18 months at a cost of over US$550 million. He said, as quoted by <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/over-us550-million-for-harare-chirundu-highway-rehabilitation-mhona/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>:
<blockquote>
Those who remember, for the Harare-Chirundu road, we were talking of over US$550 million for the rehabilitation. 
This is what we are working with. As we progress, we will continue updating and briefing the electorate.
</blockquote>
Mhona said that not only the Harare-Chirundu highway was undergoing rehabilitation, but all roads countrywide needed attention.
He said the Beitbridge-Masvingo-Harare highway is 99% complete where five local construction companies got contracts to work the busiest highway in the country known as R1.
The companies which are working on the road are Masimba Construction (Pvt) Ltd, Tensor System, Exodus, Fossil and Bitumen.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Harare-Chirundu Highway Rehabilitation To Cost Over US$550 Million - Mhona

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona has expressed condolences following the death of three National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) employees in a train accident on Monday night.
Tasunungurwa Mapuranga (49), Enock Tawabarira and Pride Femerepi lost their lives after they were trapped in a goods train horse which was carrying 14 wagons after it had derailed and caught fire at the zero-kilometre peg along Zimbabwe-Mozambique Railway Line, Forbes Border, Mutare.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, 20 February, Mhona said the loss of the three Railway men is not only a loss to their families and friends but to the entire Ministry, NRZ community and the nation at large. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable F.T. Mhona (MP), Deputy Minister, Hon. J.K. Sacco (MP), Permanent Secretary, Engineer P.J. Makumbe, the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) Board, Management and Staff have learnt with great sadness, sorrow and shock of the NRZ train tragic accident which claimed the precious lives of three NRZ employees.
The accident happened on 19 February 2024 between Mutare and Machipanda at or about 2100 Hours.
The employees are: the Senior Engineman, Mr. Tasunungurwa Mapuranga, the Yardman, Mr. Enock Tawabarira and the Security Officer, Mr. Pride Femerepi.
On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe, the Ministry and all actors in the railways and bulk logistics sector, I wish to extend our deepest and sincere condolences to the grieving and bereaved families, friends and colleagues over the deaths of their loved ones.
The loss of the three Railway men is not only a loss to their families and friends but to the entire Ministry, NRZ community and the nation at large.
It is particularly saddening that the three men met their deaths during the course of duty, where they played an integral role in ensuring the success of NRZ as a mover of bulk commodities.
My Ministry and the NRZ will forever be grateful to them for the service they gave to the company.
The Ministry and NRZ are doing their best to assist and console the bereaved families during these difficult times.
May their souls rest in eternal peace.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Minister Mhona Mourns Three Railway Men Killed In Train Accident

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has introduced new measures to address the backlog of driver’s licenses. They have extended the processing time for licenses from January 2019 to December 2020. To ensure a smooth process, they are encouraging people to make their bookings online using the correct booking platform. It is important to be cautious of fraudulent websites that aim to deceive the public.
For Metal Drivers Licenses, no action is required at the moment as the licenses are considered valid until further notice. However, for Certificate of Competency (CoC) holders with a backlog between January and June 2019, there is a booking process in place. There are two options available:
Option 1 is to contact the CVR BOT at 0778112264 on WhatsApp and follow the instructions.
Option 2 is to visit the website <a href="https://cvrbooking.motzw.com/">https://cvrbooking.motzw.com</a>. It’s important to note that CoC licenses need to be renewed every 5 years, which involves updating biometric information, photos, and vision tests. The ZIMPOST card issuance process includes receiving notifications about the arrival and dispatch of the card.
To make a booking, you can save the number 0778112264 and send a message saying “hi” on WhatsApp. Alternatively, you can use the link <a href="https://cvrbooking.motzw.com/">http://cvrbooking.motzw.com</a> and complete the booking process.
These measures aim to streamline the licensing process and reduce the backlog. By utilizing online platforms, individuals can conveniently book their appointments. It is essential to follow the correct procedures and be aware of fraudulent websites that may attempt to deceive people. The Ministry said:
<blockquote>
Please be aware that there are fraudulent websites circulating to fleece the public, and we advise against using them.
</blockquote>
<h3>Here are the instructions provided on the website:</h3>
Step 1: 
To complete your booking, you need to enter all the required information. This includes your full name, ID number, DG number, licensing location (VID Test Centre), licensing year, and a photo of your paper license (blue copy/certificate of competence/COC). Please note that we are currently accepting bookings only from individuals who obtained their paper license/blue copy/COC between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2020. The notification for the next batch of bookings will be provided at a later time.
Step 2: 
After submitting your information, it may take up to 5 working days for your information to be confirmed and processed. If you made your booking through the web portal, you will receive email notifications whenever there is a change in the status of your booking. If you made your booking through the WhatsApp bot, you can check the status of your booking by providing your booking reference. You have the flexibility to check the status using either the WhatsApp bot or the web platform.
Step 3: 
Once your booking is confirmed, please check the status to ensure its confirmation. Once confirmed, you can select a convenient date and time for biometric capturing at your preferred or nearest VID depot. If needed, you can also reschedule your appointment at a later time. To track the progress of your booking, use the provided booking reference.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Ministry Of Transport Introduces Online Booking Platform To Address Driver's License Backlog

Air Zimbabwe has received its second Embraer ERJ145 aircraft, increasing its operational fleet to three planes. The new aircraft was unveiled at the Robert Mugabe International Airport in Harare, with Transport Minister Felix Mhona and other government officials present. In a statement seen by Pindula News, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development said:
<blockquote>
Air Zimbabwe@FlyAirZimbabwe has taken delivery of an Embraer ERJ145 aircraft this morning at the Robert Mugabe International Airport and Hon F.T Mhona accompanied by several government officials received and unveiled the new aircraft.
</blockquote>
Transport Minister Felix Mhona said the arrival of a new aircraft for the national carrier would unlock value for the hospitality industry. He said:
<blockquote>
The coming in of the Embraer ERJ145 will unlock value for the hospitality industry, cause downstream growth in the national aviation sector and reaffirms President Mnangagwa’s vision of an upper middle-income economy by 2030
</blockquote>
Air Zimbabwe targets several routes including Bulawayo-Johannesburg, Victoria Falls-Johannesburg, Victoria Falls-Cape Town, Harare-Cape Town, and Harare-Durban. The flag carrier aims to provide services for passengers travelling between these destinations.
The Embraer ERJ-145 aircraft was first manufactured in the mid-1990s. It made its maiden flight in 1995 and entered commercial service in 1996. Therefore, the aircraft acquired by Zimbabwe is around 25-28 years old.
Air Zimbabwe has been criticised in the past for the decline of the airline, with accusations that the government has not adequately supported it. Critics point out that the airline inherited 22 planes from the Rhodesian government in 1980, but its fleet has significantly reduced over the years. At one point, Air Zimbabwe had only one plane in service, which led to other airlines, like Ethiopian, taking advantage of the situation and flying local routes like Harare-Bulawayo.
The new aircraft is expected to support Air Zimbabwe’s plans to expand its routes. The airline has targeted several destinations, including Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. The addition of the Embraer ERJ145 will enhance the airline’s capacity and potentially improve its services.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Air Zimbabwe Expands Fleet With Second ERJ145 Aircraft

The Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) says it has assisted Harare residents to sue Felix Mhona, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, over some defective flyovers, which are posing a serious safety risk to residents of Harare.
According to ZLHR, the residents, through Harare Residents Trust (HRT), recently filed an application at the Harare High Court seeking an order to compel Mhona to rectify the defects on three of the capital city’s flyovers located along Simon Mazorodze Road, Lytton Road and Fidel Castro road within 90 days of the granting of the court order to ensure that the flyovers are safe for use by road users.
HRT also wants the High Court to declare that Mhona’s conduct in failing to rectify the defects on the three flyovers was a contravention of residents’ right to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being as enshrined in section 73(1) of the Constitution. 
Through the application, which was filed on 8 December by ZLHR’s Tonderai Bhatasara together with Loreen Mupesa, a resident of Harare, who said she frequently uses roads located on the flyovers, argued that as the official responsible for maintenance and rehabilitation of roads in Zimbabwe, Mhona must safeguard people’s lives by ensuring that roads are safe in the country.
HRT and Mupesa protested that Mhona had not attended to fixing the defects, which were noted on the flyovers several years ago and this had exposed the flyovers to the risk of collapse and thereby endangering the lives of members of the public.
HRT and Mupesa said with each day passing, the flyovers had increasingly become dangerous and unsafe to use. 
According to HRT and Mupesa, the defects on the three flyovers were identified by officials from the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development and the City of Harare, who conducted a joint inspection and these are contained in a report, which the officials produced on 27 July 2012.
Some of the defects, which were noted and are listed in the joint report include spalling of concrete on bottom flanges of beams on edges, severe corrosion to reinforcement steel, visible cracks along the centreline deck, severely damaged expansion joints, excessive vibration of the superstructure, poor drainage of the superstructure, water leaking on expansion joints and longitudinal cracks.
HRT and Mupesa argued that while Mhona’s ministry had in 2021 acknowledged the existence of the defects on the flyovers and had undertaken to rectify them, he had since 2021 not fixed them hence the residents now want the Minister to be compelled by the High Court to repair them and help eliminate the danger, which they pose to motorists and other road users.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Harare Residents Sue Transport Minister Over Defective Flyovers

STATEMENT BY THE MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURAL DEVELOPMENT, HONOURABLE F. T. MHONA (MP) URGING MOTORISTS AND ALL ROAD USERS TO EXERCISE CAUTION DURING THE YEAR 2023/2024 FESTIVE SEASON
Fellow Citizens,
The festive season is upon us! Unity Day is on Friday, 22 December 2023, Christmas falls on Monday, 25 December 2023 and New Year is on Monday, 1 January 2024.
I wish to thank all Zimbabweans and visitors to our country during the year 2023 for heeding our call to observe rules and regulations on our roads throughout the year. However, the year 2023 was not without unfortunate incidences on our roads.
Let me express our deep-seated condolences to the families of the deceased and those who got injured in road accidents during the year 2023.
While we have taken time as a Government to commiserate with the families of the deceased and those who got injured during the year, we continue to embolden the deceased families to remain strong during the difficult period of grief.
We however need to take stock of what happened in the year 2023 and avoid a replica of such unpleasant statistics in 2024.
The festive season is characterised by high levels of mobility. Our beloved compatriots from the neighbouring countries will be traversing the motherland, in and out of our borders.
The season is also associated with excessive excitement, as we celebrate the gift of life. Road traffic densities increase at a time when the rainy season is at its peak.
It is during this period that we witness an increase in road traffic deaths and injuries that are way above average.
This is so because of increased vehicular and pedestrian traffic. All these factors increase incidences of fatalities on our roads.
As we travel on our roads, let us avoid the following transgressions among others:
Overspeeding: remember that speed thrills but it klis; Overloading: Disregarding Road signs; multi-tasking, such as drinking or chatting on the cellphone whilst driving; and Driving under the influence of alcohol;
Driving vehicles with defects and worn-out tyres: Driving vehicles fitted with illegal additional headlights; Road rage, Attempting to go past flooded rivers and bridges even with an empty bus; Driving public service vehicles [Those with licenses to transport members of the public] without valid certificates of fitness and other requirements such as valid route authority in terms of the Road Motor Transportation Act [Chapter 13: 15] and prescriptions of the Road Traffic Act [Chapter 13:11]
My Ministry shall deploy multi-stakeholder teams comprising the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, ZRP and VID officials for a full-fledged awareness campaign on road safety.
Enforcement agencies are urged to arrest all transgressors of road traffic laws and refer them for prosecution without fear or favour.
May I remind all transporters who violate Traffic laws that relevant authorities will be ready to enforce the law and if need be, withdraw their operators’ licenses in terms of the law.
We are in the rainy season. Rains can reduce visibility, make our roads slippery and year in, and year out, we have heard of vehicles being swept away by flooded rivers.
We must not attempt to go through flooded rivers and bridges. Let us all take responsibility for our lives and those of others.
We have also observed worrisome behaviour on our roads where when rain commences, drivers start disregarding road rules.
In urban centres, for instance, transgressions such as additional lanes, road jams at intersections, disregarding traffic lights and driving towards on-coming traffic, and creating human-induced gridlocks, are rampant. Let us guard against such tendencies!
As you may be aware, the Government is implementing the ongoing Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme 2 in terms of 51 47 of 2021. A
s you drive, you will witness several detours along our roads including highways. Kindly drive carefully along the detours, as some may be slippery due to rain. Further, observe instructions by those waving flags.
My Ministry made legislative interventions, in the form of Statutory Instrument 118 of 2023, on Speed Limiting and Monitoring Devices Regulations.
I, therefore, call upon all stakeholders, the TSCZ, VID, RMT, Enforcement Agencies, Operators, Operators’ Associations and all relevant players to ensure successful implementation of the regulations and adherence to the timelines set therein.
I wish you all a Happy, accident-free Unity Day, Christmas Day and a Prosperous 2024.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Transport Minister Urges Caution On The Roads During Festive Season | Full Statement

The Skyline tollgate in Zimbabwe is set to be relocated to the 36km peg along the Harare-Masvingo Road, moving it outside the urban area. This comes as part of the government’s plan to ease the financial burden on motorists living in peri-urban areas who are paying tolls twice daily on their way to and from work. The Shamva tollgate has already been moved from the Harare urban area to the Juru area and is now operational.
The Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA) has assured that they have enough funds to support the tollgate relocation. In addition to the relocations, there are plans to upgrade existing tollgates on major highways to accommodate the growing volumes of traffic. The tollgates listed for relocation are Skyline, Dema, Lion’s Den, Umguza, and Shamva, while those to be rehabilitated are Norton, Esigodini, Mushagashi, Mupfurudzi, and Colleen Bawn tollgates.
The tollgate relocations take into consideration traffic patterns, road safety, and the convenience of road users. Zinara will fund the reconstruction, rehabilitation, and relocation of the tollgates. The government aims to involve the people of Zimbabwe, especially women and youths, in road rehabilitation and infrastructural development to benefit from the country’s development policies.
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona, along with Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan Province Charles Tavengwa, recently toured the rebuilt roads in Harare and Chitungwiza. Minister Mhona appealed to the people of Zimbabwe, especially women and youths, to participate in road rehabilitation and infrastructural development, aligning with the policy of “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo” (the nation is built by its own people) that President Mnangagwa is promoting. He spoke to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/plans-to-relocate-tollgates-at-advanced-stage/">The Herald</a>:
<blockquote>
From Chitungwiza Road we moved to Harare-Beitbridge Road where we have opened 3km today (on Monday), passing through the tollgate and I would also like to deliver the message to the people of Zimbabwe that we are also going to relocate the tollgate. 
I have mandated ZINARA together with the Department of Roads, so that we take advantage of what we have within our ministry, the CMED, so that we start working on a new tollgate at the new site.
</blockquote>
The minister said the relocation of tollgates aims to address concerns raised by motorists regarding their locations. Many people have complained about tollgates being situated on their daily commuting routes. As a result, the government is moving the tollgates further out to accommodate the growth of nearby communities.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Plans To Relocate 5 Tollgates At Advanced Stage - ZINARA

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Felix Mhona, has said delays in rehabilitating the country’s road network were due to budget limitations. 
Mhona assured Parliament that all stalled road projects have now been resumed nationwide. He highlighted the significance of good roads for economic growth, noting that a well-developed road system leads to a stronger economy. He affirmed the government’s commitment to utilising domestic funds to enhance the country’s infrastructure. He said: 
<blockquote>
We are against sanctions and we are using our resources, contrary to other jurisdictions where roads are rehabilitated using the funds from World Bank and IMF.
</blockquote>
In response to Minister Mhona’s statement, Collins Bajila, the Emakhandeni-Luveve legislator, raised concerns about the government’s plan to rehabilitate roads under local authorities. Mhona explained that although the government is working on these roads, once the rehabilitation is complete, they will be handed back to the respective councils.
The government accuses the councils of neglecting the road networks within cities. Referring to the Road Act, subsection 5 (4), the government states that if a local authority fails to fulfil its responsibilities, the Ministry of Transport will step in and take over the task of rehabilitating the road. Mhona said:
<blockquote>
The road will eventually be submitted back to the local authority. Indeed, we rehabilitate such roads and hand them over for maintenance to the municipal authorities.
That is why you see most urban roads being refurbished. When we take over, it means that someone has failed to do their job.
We appreciate the fact that the roads that were alluded to by the Hon. Members are going to be rehabilitated and we will take them back to the municipal authorities.
</blockquote>
The government has periodically halted payments to its contractors in an attempt to stabilise the depreciating Zimbabwe dollar and combat hyperinflation. However, this decision has caused delays in project completion. Treasury argues that <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2022/08/11/govt-halts-payments-to-its-contractors-to-curb-inflation/">contractors have been submitting invoices using parallel market rates,</a> which has led to instability in the foreign exchange market and inflated prices for goods and services.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

"Delays In Road Rehabilitation Due To Budget Constraints," Says Transport Minister

Parliament has summoned Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona to explain the upsurge in road traffic accidents across the country, reported <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200019829/parly-summons-mhona-over-road-accidents">NewsDay</a>.
Minister Mhona is also expected to to explain why proper procedures were not followed in handling the deceased’s remains, in the case of the Bulawayo-Beitbridge Highway accident which claimed 22 lives.
This development comes after more than 30 people were killed in just three road traffic accidents in recent days.
On Monday last week, six people were killed in a road accident in Mwenezi, and three others in Chipinge in similar circumstances.
Barely 24 hours later, 22 people were killed when a South Africa-bound Toyota Quantum minibus crashed head-on against a truck.
Raising the issue as a point of national interest in the National Assembly, Mberengwa West legislator Tafanana Zhou (ZANU PF) called on Mhona to issue a ministerial statement outlining the government’s plans to curb road traffic accidents. Said Zhou:
<blockquote>
Mr Speaker Sir, road accidents are prevalent, and since we are approaching the festive season, I propose that we get a ministerial statement regarding what the government plans to do in order to curb road carnage during the festive season.
I also want to say that when an accident occurs, respect for the dead people should be observed by putting their remains in a body bag.
Therefore, I am requesting the minister to bring in a ministerial statement explaining why the deceased’s remains are not being put in a body bag.
</blockquote>
The Speaker of the National Assembly Jacob Mudenda requested the ZANU PF chief whip to take up the issue with Minister Mhona for the statement to be ready by 28 November.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/18/president-mnangagwa-reverses-the-appointment-of-general-valerio-sibanda-to-zanu-pf-politburo/">Pindula News</a>

Parliament Summons Transport Minister Over Upsurge In Fatal Road Accidents

The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development Felix Mhona has said losing 22 people in a single accident is the worst nightmare. He made the remarks in his condolence message following the death of 22 people in an accident involving a Toyota Quantum and a truck at the 27-kilometre peg along the Bulawayo-Beitbridge Road. The Minister said the Government had already initiated steps to curb road carnage when the tragedy occurred. Below is the full statement :
<blockquote>
<h3>STATEMENT ON THE TOYOTA QUANTUM CRASH</h3>
It is with a heavy heart that I address the nation on the bus crash which occurred on Tuesday 14 November 2023, at the 27 km peg along the Bulawayo-Beitbridge Road in Umzingwane District.
Tragically, 22 people died on the spot when the driver of a Toyota Quantum attempted to overtake and encroached into the lane of an oncoming lorry, leading to a head-on collision. Indeed, this is a worst nightmare to lose several of our beloved ones in such a single terrible crash, and it is certainly the worst nightmare that families and the whole nation can endure.
Our thoughts are with the victims of the crash, the bereaved families, the injured and the survivors who witnessed the gruesome, traumatic and dark moment of the accident. During this somber period, we call upon the whole nation to commiserate with the affected families, at a time when we wish a speedy recovery to the injured. We only wish that we do not record further casualties as the survivors continue to receive treatment and care.
Incidences of this nature only serve as a clarion call to all our stakeholders of the road traffic ecosystem, including motorists, operators and passengers to be more vigilant against road traffic violations, especially speeding. This unfortunate fatality is recorded as we approach the festive season, and it is our hope that such occurrences do not recur. The Ministry rallies all traffic law enforcement agencies, road traffic safety actors, motorists and road users to collaborate against road fatalities.

We urge the nation to formulate rational decisions in making travel choices and prioritise use of safer vehicles with the right state of mind. Rational behaviours and attitudes are ingredients of a safer road traffic management regime, where all actors play their party for traffic safety. As passionate proponents of Road Safety, we wish to assure the nation that the Second Republic is committed to the formulation of robust legal, policy and administrative mechanisms to improve the country’s road safety regime and performance. The recent enactment of Statutory Instrument 118 of 2023 on Speed Limiting and Monitoring Devices Regulations and Statutory Instrument 119 of 2023 on Licensing of Drivers Regulations are an eloquent testimony of our commitment.
We continue to urge all stakeholders to ensure compliance with the legal framework. The Government, through my Ministry, shall continue to monitor the situation and render appropriate assistance to the bereaved families and survivors of the accident. 
Hon. F.T. Mhona (M.P) Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development
</blockquote>
Police have named 15 of the victims and are waiting for the next of kin to identify the remaining 7 victims.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

FULL TEXT: Transport Minister Says Losing 22 People In A Single Accident Is "A Worst Nightmare"

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Felix_Mhona/">Felix Mhona</a>, has requested that rural communities provide a list of gravel roads that require repairs. He also asked them to specify the amount of fuel needed for the repairs. However, Mberengwa residents are expressing their desire for tarred roads instead. They believe that having tarred roads would be more beneficial and convenient for them.
Mhona, made the call during the question and answer session in parliament, on Wednesday while responding to Tinashe “Goga” Shumba, a member of the ruling party ZANU PF and a representative for Mberengwa Central. Shumba had raised concerns about the difficulty of travelling on these gravel roads during the rainy season, especially since they connect homes, clinics, and hospitals in rural areas. Shumba said:
<blockquote>
My question is directed to the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development. What is the government policy on re-gravelling rural roads? There is the Rural Rehabilitation Programme.
They are resurfacing roads, but they are not putting the gravel. During the rainy season, these roads are not accessible yet they lead us to critical public institutions like hospitals and clinics.
</blockquote>
In response, Minister Mhona encouraged rural communities to communicate with the government through the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA) and Rural District Councils (RDC). He mentioned that the ministry is considering taking additional measures instead of solely relying on their department for assistance. He said:
<blockquote>
We are saying let us reason together, do your compilation of the roads that you require to be graded and the amount of fuel that you require so that we start funding for fuel through your rural district council and through RIDA, so that you will also be in a position to rehabilitate your roads before the advent of the rains.
</blockquote>
Gravel roads need to be maintained regularly, but according to Shumba, they are deteriorating further as the rainy season approaches. The minister agrees with Shumba’s concerns, stating that although they grade the roads, some of them have become weaker and need to be re-graveled first. However, he acknowledges that even after grading, the roads often end up in poor condition again when it rains.
Shumba’s question to the Minister of Transport, however, failed to inspire Mberengwa residents. One of those is Dr<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Takavafira_Zhou/"> Takavafira Zhou</a>, the president of the Progressive Teachers Union (PTUZ). He said:
<blockquote>
I certainly don’t see any expertise in this question from an MP of Mberengwa that is rich in mineral resources and has nothing to show for this. The 3 Mps from Mberengwa (<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Tafanana_Zhou/">Tafanana Zhou</a>, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Tasara_Hungwe/">Tasara Hungwe</a> and Shumba) must lobby for the tar macadimisation of our roads by companies looting our minerals such as lithium, chrome, lime, platinum, antimony, emeralds, copper etc. Apparently, Goga is just staying or mining adjacent to Chinese looting lime from Mberengwa. Why is he failing to move a motion in parliament at the plundering nature of Chinese and Kuvimba and the destruction of roads? Why is he and other MPs from Mberengwa not lobbying for local processing of lime, lithium, chrome, platinum, emeralds etc in order to add value to Mberengwa and beneficiation, I wonder?
</blockquote>

<ol>
<li><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2022/11/05/lithium-rush-in-mberengwa-police-order-miners-to-vacate-the-area/">Lithium Rush In Mberengwa: Police Order Miners To Vacate The Area</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/07/04/woman-jailed-5-years-for-illegal-possession-of-emeralds/">Woman Jailed 5 Years For Illegal Possession Of Emeralds</a></li>
</ol>
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mberengwa/">Mberengwa District</a>, located at the border of three provinces – <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Midlands_Province/">Midlands</a>, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Masvingo_Province/">Masvingo</a> and <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Matabeleland_South_Province/">Matabeleland South</a> – faces a significant infrastructure challenge as it lacks tarred roads. In the 1990s, during Byron Hove’s era, there was an effort to tar the Mberengwa-West Nicholson road, a strategic route that would reduce travel distance for haulage trucks and buses heading to Zambia by nearly 100 kilometres. However, progress has been slow, with only 13 kilometres of the road being tarred until 2018 when construction resumed. Since then, an additional 22 kilometres have been completed, reaching Yorks township.
Mberengwa is known for its vast mineral resources, including lithium, chrome, lime, platinum, antimony, gold, and emeralds. However, despite mining activities by both local and foreign companies, the district remains one of the poorest in the country. This raises concerns about the equitable distribution of resources and the need for effective governance and transparency in the mining sector. It is essential for the government and relevant stakeholders to address these issues and ensure that the district’s mineral wealth translates into tangible development and improved living conditions for the local communities. Additionally, investing in road infrastructure would not only enhance transportation and connectivity but also open up opportunities for economic growth and development in Mberengwa and Zimbabwe at large.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Minister Asks Rural MP To List Gravel Roads For Repairs, Residents Demand Tarred Roads

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/ZINARA/">Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA)</a> has announced that they have relocated a tollgate on the Harare-Nyamapanda Road. The tollgate, previously located between the 19.5km and 20.5km pegs just outside Harare city limits, has been moved north to the 40km and 41km pegs. The new tollgate site, now known as Juru tollgate, was officially gazetted in Statutory Instrument 217 of 2023 by the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Felix_Mhona/">Felix Mhona</a>. In a public notice, ZINARA explained that a temporary structure will be used at the new site until the planned toll plaza is installed. Read the notice: 
<blockquote>
<h3>RELOCATION OF SHAMVA TOLLGATE</h3>
Members of the public are advised that the Shamva tollgate, located at the 19.5km peg along the Harare-Nyamapanda road. will be relocating to a new site at the 40km peg along the same highway. In this new location, the tollgate will be referred to as Juru Tollgate and is housed in a temporary structure ahead of the planned construction of a toll plaza.
The relocation is effective today. the 27th of October 2023, as gazetted in the SI 217 of 2023.
</blockquote>
ZINARA’s decision to relocate the Shamva-turnoff tollgate to the Juru site aims to improve traffic flow and provide a better experience for drivers. Mrs. Tsungie Manyeza, ZINARA’s head of corporate communications, told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zinara-relocates-shamva-tollgate/">The Herald</a> that the move considers factors like traffic patterns and road safety. The goal is to minimize disruptions and inconvenience to drivers, ensuring a seamless transition and a smoother, safer journey through the tollgate area. She said ZINARA is committed to delivering efficient and reliable services to the public during this relocation.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

ZINARA Has Relocated And Renamed Shamva Tollgate

The Government says the rehabilitation of the dilapidated Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highway has started, with Bitumen World (Private) Limited teams already on the ground.
This follows an urgent call by motorists and business leaders for the Government to repair the badly damaged road.
Addressing delegates during the 2023 Infrastructure Summit and Expo, which was officially opened by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Friday, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister, Felix Mhona, said funds have been released for the rehabilitation of the road. He said:
<blockquote>
We thank His Excellency for being a listening President. You don’t just hear, but act.
Last week we were inundated with calls especially from this province (Matabeleland North) complaining about the state of Victoria Falls Road, and others were saying: ‘Minister have you driven on that road yourself?.
I want to thank you Your Excellency in that when you directed and mandated me this last week that you wanted the road works to start progressively before you land in this particular city, and precisely this has happened.
I want to thank you Your Excellency for the money you have given us, the contractor is now back on the road doing the work, and for this you deserve applause.
</blockquote>
The Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highway is a strategic trade route on the regional north-to-south corridor, linking Zimbabwe with South Africa, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia as well as the DRC.
The deplorable state of the road has been blamed on the increased number of haulage trucks that mainly transport coal from different mining companies.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Rehabilitation Of Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road Resumes - Minister

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona has said corruption is undermining the credibility of the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA).
Speaking at ZINARA’s annual general meeting held at a local hotel in Harare this week, Mhona said:
<blockquote>
Corruption undermines the credibility of the organisation and erodes public trust in the Road Fund.
</blockquote>
He urged ZINARA to work with various stakeholders including the media to improve its image. <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200014177/corruption-damaging-zinara-image-minister">Mhona said</a>:
<blockquote>
This includes partnering with civil society organisations where possible and the media to promote awareness of the organisation’s mandate, brand at large and also the good things being done which may at times go unnoticed.
This includes implementing strict procurement procedures to realise value for money, ensuring that contracts are awarded fairly and transparently, and conducting regular audits to identify and address irregularities.
</blockquote>
In December 2021, Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) chairperson Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo said ZINARA, the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID), and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) were the most corrupt state departments.
Last month, a ZINARA licensing officer Patricia Chikorwe, stationed at the Harare Exhibition Park Branch, was sentenced to three years in jail after she was convicted of 258 counts of criminal abuse of office for manipulating the vehicle licensing system, resulting in a loss of potential revenue of US$168,458 for ZINARA.
In February last year, the ZACC arrested 12 ZINARA employees for fraud involving $9,8 million after they created fake tap cards which they swiped for motorists at the Shurugwi tollgate.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Corruption Undermining ZINARA's Credibility - Minister Mhona

The Government says it will soon introduce a new law to curb road traffic accidents that have killed hundreds of people so far this year.
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona Mhona said that the Government will soon gazette a new Statutory Instrument on measures to curb the road carnage.
He said the law would ensure the right age requirement for bus drivers is met while fixing the maximum speed for buses, among other measures.
Mhona made the remarks in Dotito, Mashonaland Central province last week after visiting the scene of the CAG bus accident that claimed seven lives. He said:
<blockquote>
The law will make sure buses that are brought into the country are fixed in a manner that makes sure they do not go above 100km/hr.
We have excitable drivers who are also inexperienced and underage. We will address all this in our new law that is coming soon.
</blockquote>
Mhona also announced that the soon-to-be-introduced plastic discs will reduce a massive backlog of driver’s licenses. He said:
<blockquote>
It will be acceptable in 27 countries in and out of SADC. There is a code that shows everything about the driver and on the 19th of this month, there will be an official launch of the license. It will also reduce the making of fake driver’s licenses.
We had a backlog of over 600 000 driver’s licenses and this will ensure we bring this to an end. We were having problems with licenses.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe National Roads Authority (ZINARA) board chairperson George Manyaya and his Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ) counterpart Kura Sibanda accompanied Mhona to Dotito.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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