Gvt Tightens Road Safety Measures: Kombis Restricted to 60 km Radius
By Staff Reporter
In a move to curb road traffic accidents involving commuter omnibuses, commonly known as kombis, the government has introduced strict new regulations aimed at improving road safety.
In a statement, the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Development, Felix Mhona announced that, effective September 3, 2024, kombis will be restricted to operating within a 60-kilometer radius, down from the previous 120 kilometers.
“As the Ministry endeavors to mitigate against road traffic crashes involving kombis, a policy position has been taken to review the current radius-based restrictions for kombis on the issuance of route permits. This is one of the many robust policies, regulatory and administrative mechanisms being adopted to improve the country’s road safety regime,” said Mhona.
The new regulations will affect all 26-seater kombis and smaller vehicles, which will now only be allowed to operate within a 60-kilometer radius.
Mhona urged commuters traveling beyond this distance to opt for high-capacity buses, which he described as “more predictable, reliable, comfortable, and more consistent” compared to kombis.
These buses, he noted, offer greater legroom and baggage space, making them ideal for long-distance travel.
Additionally, kombis operating within the new radius must be fitted with speed-limiting and monitoring devices, as mandated by Statutory Instrument 118 of 2023. Mhona emphasized that no kombi will be issued a certificate of fitness without these devices.
“All inspection officers should adhere to this law,” he said, warning that law enforcement would ensure compliance.
The Minister also expressed concern about the growing trend of kombis and unauthorized vehicles, known as “mushika-shika,” picking up and dropping off passengers at non-designated points.
This practice, he said, is damaging recently refurbished roads. Mhona called on enforcement officers to ensure that all public service vehicles use designated bus stops.
The Ministry has called for greater vigilance from all road traffic stakeholders, including motorists, transport operators, and passengers, to combat road violations such as speeding, overloading, and the use of unroadworthy vehicles.
“Drivers and transport operators will be held accountable for such actions which are contrary to their legal and moral obligation for the safety of all road users,” Mhona warned.
