Transport fares have gone up again for the second time in just over two weeks with commuter omnibus/bus operators saying they need to hedge themselves against increases in prices of fuel and motor vehicle spares.

Short distances which used to cost 50 cents before going up 75 cents are now going for $1.

Long distances which initially used to go for $1 are now at $1.50 although the prices can go up to $2
at peak hours. Speaking to the Daily News, Simplisio Shamba, president of the Motor Industry Employees Association (MIEA) said Spare parts were being sold in hard currency and fuel was also being sold on the black market.

“High demand of goods has caused prices to increase, so businesses are looking at replacement value. There has been no allocation of foreign currency to the industry to bring in spare parts and the shortage of fuel has been spiked by porous border posts, so smuggled parts are now in the market. Government has done the best possible but demand for
products has also increased.” Daily News