Mutare commuter transport operators hike fares

Transport mogul and Zanu PF central committee member Esau Mupfumi has stepped in to ease transport challenges in Mutare after commuter omnibus operators effected a 100 percent fare increase.

Through his bus company, Gold Class, Mupfumi has introduced affordable services, drawing praise from residents in Dangamvura who have been struggling with rising transport costs.

Commuter omnibuses had doubled fares from US$0,50 to US$1 for trips between Dangamvura, Sakubva and Mutare's central business district, a move that placed significant pressure on commuters, particularly schoolchildren travelling daily between Sakubva and the CBD.

Residents also commended MDTA Kombis for maintaining fares at US$0,50 despite the broader increase.

A Dangamvura resident, Tendai Masamvu, whose child attends a primary school near the CBD, welcomed the intervention.

"I am happy with the initiative that has been taken by Dr Esau Mupfumi. Kombis are charging US$1 to the CBD and Sakubva, but his buses are charging US$0,50," he said.

"Mupfumi has complemented the efforts of one kombi service, namely MDTA, which has kept fares at US$0,50."

Parents with children attending Sakubva High 1, Elise Glen Hill, Sakubva High 2, St Dominic's, Boys High School, First Class, Mutare Junior Primary and Versatile are among those benefiting from the reduced fares.

Mupfumi, a former Dangamvura/Chikanga Member of Parliament, said he remains committed to supporting the community.

"I am always eager to help my community," he said.

"I am always on the ground assessing the situation. That is why I discovered that some operators are taking advantage of our residents and parents."

This is not the first time Mupfumi has intervened to assist residents. He has previously offered free transport to the elderly and played a significant role during the COVID-19 pandemic by providing free bus services to communities in need.