Zupco appeals to gvt

Albert Chavhunduka
The acting Chief Executive Officer for the State-owned bus operator, Zupco, Mr Tendai Masaire says the company can be fully operational if treasury provides funding to recapitalize its operations.

Speaking before the parliamentary portfolio committee on Local Government chaired by Mutasa South House of Assembly member, Cde Irene Zindi (Zanu-PF), Mr Masaire said that the bus company is sustaining itself with internally generated resources.

He said Zupco has a framework to purchase 100 buses every year using its own resources adding that if the Government assists with funds, the company’s operations can go beyond the current level.

Mr Masaire said the company was mainly affected by dollarization as this resulted in the failure to procure spare parts and other equipment for buses.

The President of the Chief’s council, Fortune Charumbira blamed maladministration for the company’s failure to stay afloat in business at a time when other players are making profits.

ZUPCO’s chief executive Mr Brian Chawasarira was suspended last year pending an investigation into allegations of mismanagement and corruption amid reports that the company’s financial status is precarious.