More buses coming

President’s full speech on commissioning of 50 buses in Harare

We are gathered here once again for yet another commissioning of ZUPCO buses.

Today marks the 6th commissioning following the commitment made by the Government of Zimbabwe to prioritise comprehensive urban public transport systems so as to increase convenience, reliability and comfort to the commuting public.

Today we are commission 50 buses which will be mainly distributed to urban areas.

The National Development Strategy whose vision is, “Towards a Prosperous & Empowered Upper Middle Income Society by 2030’ outlines transportation as one of our economic growth enablers. Government will commit to keep unleashing broad-based growth to ensure massive investments in transportation.

I urge all relevant authorities to continue their efforts in investing in basic infrastructure to enhance the transport system in the country.

As we implement the devolution programme, we envisage to ensure the active participation all citizens in the mainstream economy.

Devolution thrives when we also make meaningful investments in public transportation systems.

We applaud ZUPCO for the routes they have since established to ensure the transportation of our people from various places.

I am informed that the company has since started mechanical works and managed to put back old buses on the road.

I am further informed that there are private sector players who are also working on a programme to bring kits and assemble buses locally. I urge these companies to continue with the current efforts while ensuring that technology is embraced in all efforts.

The 50 buses we are commissioning today will cover Victoria Falls, Chinhoyi, Harare, Kadoma, kwekwe, Gweru, Bulawayo, Zvishavane, Masvingo and Mutare.

We will be bringing more in the near future and ensure that we create a sustainable public transport system.

We applaud ZUPCO for holding the fort during the trying times at the peak of Covid-19 by ensuring the continued transportation of essential workers.

I call upon the company to ensure that they urge the commuting public to follow the stipulated Covid-19 guidelines when boarding the buses.

We need to remain vigilant as a country and ensure that we fight the spread of the pandemic.

Stay Safe.

I thank you.