Transporters welcome new policies

should be done in a systematic way to ensure that those given permits would also be assisted in securing funding.

“We hope, that in the process of removal of kombis and minibuses, it will be done is such a way that deserving operators shall have Government guarantees to access funding for the purchase of new vehicles, firstly to cover the gap left by these kombis and minibuses and secondly to renew the current fleet on the roads,” said Mr Kautsiro.

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One of the measures announced by Transport, Communication and Infrastructural Development Minister Nicholas Goche recently, was to ensure that long distance buses such as cross border operators should ensure that there are two drivers, something that the association has welcomed.

“Most of our operators have adopted the use of two drivers, we are therefore glad that our Government shares our sentiments,” said Mr Kautsiro.
“The use of two drivers increases the driver’s efficiency because they only driver for maximum of 300 kilometres in most cases before handing over to the next person.

“However most insurance companies have placed this as a pre-condition on comprehensive covers since 2012.”
Mr Kautsiro said his association appreciated the mass bus transport system for urban areas, as it allowed for the absorption of anticipated growth of the country’s economy.

“In the event that our economy grows to even 50% of what it was in the mid 1990s, there will be need for radical development of the sector and the ministry’s plans are in line with what would be required,” he said.

The association also lauded the Government for its plan to reduce duty on bus kits saying this allow operators to replace worn out spares without much difficulty.