ZPTO Praises Government’s Plan to Support Local Bus Manufacturing

The Zimbabwe Passenger Transport Organisation (ZPTO) has expressed support for the government’s decision to end the duty-free importation of public service buses starting January 2025.

This policy shift, highlighted in the 2025 budget, aims to promote local bus assembly by suspending customs duties on semi-knocked-down kits for two years.

ZPTO chairperson Samson Nhanhanga described the move as a milestone, emphasizing its potential to create jobs and conserve foreign currency previously spent on importing buses.

Nhanhanga acknowledged the success of the temporary duty-free rebate, noting that over 1,500 buses were acquired since its introduction, exceeding the initial target of 500.

He revealed that another 200 buses are expected to arrive during the festive season, a development he said secures the country’s transport needs for the next three years.

The government introduced the duty-free scheme in 2022, limiting rebates to approved importers for up to 20 public service vehicles per importer annually.

Nhanhanga emphasized the importance of strengthening the local bus manufacturing sector to ensure long-term sustainability and reduce dependency on foreign imports.

In addition to advocating for local vehicle assembly, ZPTO has engaged the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe to promote road safety awareness during the holiday season.

The collaboration aims to curb accidents through education campaigns targeting both transport operators and the general public, focusing on achieving a safer festive period.

According to police statistics, the 2023 festive season saw 1,194 road accidents between December 15 and 26, resulting in 87 deaths and 424 injuries nationwide.

In 2022, the same period recorded 1,480 accidents, claiming 102 lives and leaving 289 people injured, marking a decrease in fatal incidents last year.

Nhanhanga stressed the importance of driver education, urging transport crews to prioritize safety and adopt measures to minimize road carnage during peak travel periods.

The government’s decision to empower the local vehicle industry comes as a strategic response to both economic and infrastructural demands, balancing job creation and import reduction.

As the festive season approaches, the focus remains on enhancing public safety while preparing for a future built on local innovation and sustainable growth.