Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development has released a draft of the E-Hailing Regulations following a Government directive to regulate e-hailing services in line with regional and international standards.
In September, Cabinet gave e-hailing transport operators a five-month reprieve to allow the Government to review regulations governing the growing sector, with authorities saying the services will continue operating during the period.
The five-month moratorium applied to platforms such as Bolt, InDrive, Tap & Go, GoFaster and KOSE, among others.
In simple terms, the moratorium meant that the Government was pausing the implementation of new or contentious regulatory measures while it works with operators and other stakeholders to agree on clearer rules for the industry.
“The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development released the Draft E-Hailing Regulations in line with a Cabinet directive requiring their promulgation by December 31, 2026,” the ministry said in a statement.
“The Ministry invites stakeholders and members of the public to review the proposed draft Statutory Instrument and submit their views and recommendations before promulgation to inform the development of a regulatory framework for e-hailing services in Zimbabwe.
“Your input is important in shaping safe, efficient and well-regulated e-hailing services.”
In September, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said Cabinet recognised the important role being played by e-hailing services, which have provided convenient, affordable and dignified transport while creating employment, particularly for young people.
However, the sector has faced regulatory challenges, which the Government said were undermining the ease of doing business.
As part of the review, Government will work towards a self-regulating framework, meaning e-hailing companies, operators and drivers will have clear rules to follow, particularly around driver conduct and passenger safety.
Cabinet also directed that e-hailing transport businesses begin registering with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) for tax purposes. Operators who are already registered will be required to apply for tax registration.
The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development then started developing regulations for the sector after consulting industry players and considering international best practices.
For passengers, the review is aimed at ultimately ensuring that e-hailing services remain safe, secure, convenient and affordable.
The measures are being implemented in line with the Government’s National Development Strategy 2, which seeks to promote an enabling business environment while improving service delivery.
