Bus operators offer free transport for Independence Day celebrations

Source: The Herald – Breaking news.

---

Herald Correspondent

Private bus operators nationwide have stepped up to facilitate widespread participation at the Independence celebrations by providing free transport services, enabling citizens to join the festivities.

The main national event will be held in Gokwe on Friday for the first time. Thousands of people will be transported to designated venues in Gokwe, Harare and Mutare under a concerted effort spearheaded by the Zimbabwe Passenger Transporters Organisation (ZPTO) and its members.

Prominent operators such as Inter Africa, Munhenzva and CAG Travellers have committed their fleets to ensure Zimbabweans can partake in this important occasion.

In an interview, ZPTO vice chairperson and Inter Africa chief executive officer Dr Leonard Mukumba said the organisation was supporting the national event.

“We are proud to be celebrating this Independence Day with the rest of the country and extend heartfelt congratulations to President Mnangagwa, the Government and the people of Zimbabwe,” Dr Mukumba said.

He said transport arrangements were in place.

“In Gokwe, we are supplying buses to ferry people to and from the main celebration venue. In Harare and Mutare, we are offering free transportation so that everyone has a chance to participate in this important day.”

Dr Mukumba also said bus drivers need to exercise caution on the road during the Independence and Easter long weekend when there will be increased human and vehicular traffic.

“We want everyone to enjoy this day safely. We urge passengers not to encourage drivers to speed,” he said

“In cases of speeding, the public should contact the ZPTO so that such drivers are reprimanded. Speeding doesn’t mean safe arrival.”

Dr Mukumba called upon fellow operators to adhere strictly to all regulatory requirements.

“Let us ensure our buses have proper paperwork. If a bus is not compliant, it must be parked until the documentation is in order,” he said.

The ZPTO’s initiative comes as large numbers of people are travelling to various venues across the country to marking the 45th anniversary of Zimbabwe’s Independence from British colonial rule.