By A Correspondent

The government has introduced new regulations aimed at public transport drivers, specifically those operating commuter omnibuses (commonly known as kombis).

The new directive, which was published in the Statutory Instrument 10 of 2025, mandates that public transport drivers must be at least 30 years old and have a minimum of five years of driving experience. This decision is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance road safety and improve the quality of public transport services.

The regulations were announced under the Road Traffic (Licensing of Drivers) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 (No. 1), and the full legal framework is included in Statutory Instrument 10 of 2025. The Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development made this update in terms of section 81 of the Road Traffic Act [Chapter 13:11], as follows:

“A class of motor vehicle which is a passenger public service vehicle of an omnibus or commuter omnibus type shall only be operated by drivers who have a minimum of five years’ driving experience and are at least 30 years of age.”

However, a transition clause was also included to accommodate drivers aged 25 to 30 who were already authorized to drive these vehicles before the publication of the new regulations. These drivers are allowed to continue operating their vehicles without disruption, even though they do not meet the new age and experience requirements.

As specified in the regulation:

“Drivers who are still between 25 and 30 years of age and were already authorized to drive an omnibus or commuter omnibus before the publication of these regulations shall continue to drive motor vehicles in that class.”

These regulations are effective immediately upon publication and aim to improve the overall safety standards in the public transport sector.

The full details of the amendments can be found in the Supplement to the Zimbabwean Government Gazette dated 31st January 2025.