Festive season rush hits Bulawayo's bus termini

Major bus termini in Bulawayo were teeming with activity yesterday as scores of travellers jostled to secure seats on long-distance buses to their rural homes ahead of the Christmas holiday.

The festive spirit was palpable, as Unity Day celebrations marked the beginning of the holiday season across the nation. The hustle and bustle at Bulawayo's bus termini reflected the excitement of those eager to reunite with loved ones for the holidays.

A visit by the Chronicle to bus termini in Makokoba, Entumbane, and Nkulumane suburbs revealed vibrant scenes as passengers sought transport to various destinations, including Binga, Nkayi, Tsholotsho, Plumtree, Filabusi, and Gwanda.
Families Reuniting for Festivities

Travellers expressed their joy at the prospect of spending Christmas and New Year with family. Miss Lisa Bukhosi, heading to Sivalo Village in Lupane, shared:

"I bought sugar, cooking oil, mayonnaise, flour, and rice so that my family can enjoy Christmas. Christmas and New Year are about family, and I can't wait to see my grandparents."

Others, like Mr Emmanuel Phiri, were excited to bring goods to their rural homes. Phiri, transporting a newly purchased scotch cart to Gwelutshena in Nkayi, said:

"They charged me US$60 for the scotch cart. I've been saving for months to buy it, and I'm happy to finally take it home."

Fair Fares Despite High Demand

Unlike previous years, bus operators have refrained from hiking fares despite the high demand. Mr Michael Khabo, a CAG bus driver on the Bulawayo-Nkayi route, explained:

"Our customers have been loyal to us. It's unfair to take advantage of the high demand during the Christmas season to increase the fares."

A trip from Bulawayo to Nkayi remains at US$10, with additional charges for luggage.
Challenges for Some Travellers

Despite the festive cheer, some travellers faced challenges due to limited transport availability. Mrs Elina Zombe, travelling with her three children to Binga, had been waiting for hours after their usual bus broke down.

"They've promised it will arrive by noon, but if not, we'll take any bus that can drop us at Binga Centre," she said.

Galaxy Bus Company confirmed increased demand, with extra buses on standby for routes such as Bulawayo-Victoria Falls.
Vendors and Local Economy Thrive

The surge in travellers has also boosted business for vendors at Old Renkini Bus Terminus, with brisk sales of food and other essentials.

At Nkulumane and Entumbane complexes, buses heading to Matopo, Plumtree, Filabusi, and Gwanda were packed with passengers, many carrying groceries and gifts for their families.

Mr Isaac Mlalazi, travelling to Plumtree, praised the affordability and convenience of bus travel, saying:

"It costs me US$3 or R50 to get to Plumtree. It's affordable and convenient."

As the holiday season continues, the scenes at Bulawayo's bus termini underscore the enduring importance of family, tradition, and community in Zimbabwe's festive celebrations.