Government moves to clear ‘mishikashika’ from Zimbabwe’s Roads
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Tapiwa Mhona has unveiled a sweeping plan to eliminate pirate taxis popularly known as mishikashika as part of a broader strategy to modernise Zimbabwe’s transport sector and restore order to urban roads.
Presenting his ministry’s strategic roadmap this week, Mhona said government was adopting “a holistic approach” to tackle long-standing challenges in the transport system while securing new financial streams to sustain growth.
“Enhanced resource mobilisation remains a key priority to ensure sustainability and progress,” Mhona said.
He noted that the sector’s transformation would be supported through public–private partnerships (PPPs), retained revenues, user fees and fines mechanisms designed to fund both ongoing and future infrastructure projects.
A major element of the strategy is the crackdown on mishikashika, which have become a fixture in urban transport but are blamed for road chaos, congestion and unsafe commuting. Mhona said his ministry was working closely with the ministries of Home Affairs and Local Government to enforce traffic regulations and strengthen urban transport management.
“We are determined to bring sanity to the urban transport space through co-ordinated enforcement and improved planning,” he said.
Looking ahead, Mhona announced plans for a nationwide integrated mass bus transit system aimed at providing efficient, affordable and safe public transport for citizens.
The minister also revealed that key transport parastatals were being revived, with the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) set for recapitalisation to restore its operational capacity. In addition, government is pushing for the absorption of legacy debts at Air Zimbabwe, which have long constrained the national carrier.
Mhona commended the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Transport for its continued support, emphasising that collaboration across sectors would be crucial to realising the ministry’s vision.
“Together, we can build a resilient and modern transport system that drives national development and improves the lives of our people,” he said.
