By Staff Reporter
The Government of Zimbabwe recently commended e-hailing platforms like inDrive and Bolt for delivering affordable and dignified services to commuters, granting the operators a five-month reprieve to fully comply with local licensing regulations.
This regulatory extension comes amid massive growth in Zimbabwe’s ride-hailing sector, where competition between regional and international platforms has heavily transformed urban transport.
Information Secretary Nick Mangwana and government officials confirmed that these platforms are credited with creating youth employment and offering cheaper transport alternatives. The five-month window allows operators and drivers to resolve ongoing regulatory and compliance issues without facing immediate bans.
International entry from Bolt Zimbabwe and inDrive Zimbabwe has disrupted local transport systems by cutting fares through zero-commission launch strategies.
Cabinet approved interim measures for the sector, including the five-month moratorium, during which the Government will work with industry players and regulators to develop a framework for e-hailing services.
Ncube said e-hailing had become an important part of Zimbabwe’s transport system, providing affordable and convenient services while creating employment opportunities, particularly for young people.
“Cabinet notes that they are providing convenient, affordable and more dignified services to the public as well as employment opportunities especially for the youths,” Ncube said.
However, he said regulatory challenges were affecting the ease of doing business in the sector.
“Accordingly, and following consultations with players and regulatory authorities, Cabinet has approved Interim Transitional Measures, entailing observance of a 5-month moratorium to enable a thorough review of the e-hailing transport services,” Ncube said.
During the moratorium, the Government will work with operators and regulatory authorities to develop a self-regulatory framework to guide e-hailing drivers and operators and strengthen passenger safety.
