In a significant move aimed at improving road safety across the nation, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has announced a policy shift regarding the operational radius for kombis.
Effective September 3, 2024, the permitted radius for kombis will be reduced from 120 kilometers to 60 kilometers. This change applies to operators seeking new route permits.
The Ministry’s decision comes as part of a broader initiative to address and mitigate road traffic accidents involving kombis. By limiting the operational radius, the Ministry aims to enhance safety standards and ensure more reliable transport services.
Under the new regulations, all 26-seater kombis and smaller vehicles will now be restricted to providing services within a 60-kilometer radius.
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The Ministry strongly advises commuters traveling beyond this distance to opt for high-capacity buses, which are better equipped for long-distance travel. Buses offer greater comfort, more legroom, and ample baggage space, making them a preferable choice for longer journeys.
Additionally, kombis operating within the 60-kilometer radius must adhere to stringent safety requirements. As stipulated in Section 3 (1) of Statutory Instrument 118 of 2023, all kombis must be equipped with speed-limiting and monitoring devices. Inspection officers are mandated to enforce this regulation rigorously and ensure that no kombi is certified for fitness without these devices installed. Non-compliance will not be tolerated.
The Ministry has also expressed concern about the growing issue of kombis and unauthorized vehicles, commonly known as “mushika-shika,” picking up and dropping off passengers at non-designated points. This practice not only damages newly refurbished roads but also disrupts the orderly flow of passenger transport. The Ministry calls on enforcement officers to ensure strict adherence to designated pick-up and drop-off points to maintain road infrastructure and passenger safety.
Existing Route Permits issued prior to this announcement will remain valid until their expiration. However, from now on, no kombi will be allowed to operate without the required speed-limiting and monitoring devices.
Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Hon. FT. Mhona (M.P), issued a clarion call to all stakeholders in the road traffic ecosystem, including motorists, transport operators, and passengers. He urged everyone to remain vigilant against traffic violations such as speeding, overloading, and the use of unroadworthy vehicles. The Minister emphasized that such violations are serious offenses and will be met with accountability to ensure the safety of all road users.
The Ministry is committed to working closely with traffic law enforcement agencies, road safety actors, and the public to reduce road fatalities and enhance overall road safety.
