The government has tightened regulations on public transport drivers, raising the minimum age for omnibus and commuter omnibus drivers to 30 years, citing safety concerns and the need for experienced drivers on Zimbabwe’s roads.
In a statutory instrument published by the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Felix Mhona, the government amended the Road Traffic (Licensing of Drivers) Regulations, 2023 to reflect the new requirements.
Under the new rules, drivers of passenger public service vehicles—including omnibuses and commuter omnibuses—must have at least five years of driving experience and be at least 30 years old.
However, drivers aged between 25 and 30 who were already licensed before the new regulations will be allowed to continue operating.
The move has sparked mixed reactions from stakeholders.
Some public transport operators have welcomed the decision, arguing that it will improve road safety.
“Many road accidents are caused by inexperienced and reckless drivers. This regulation will help ensure that only mature and experienced drivers are in charge of passenger vehicles,” said Peter Mandizha, a commuter omnibus owner in Harare.
Road safety advocates have long pushed for stricter licensing requirements, citing the high number of road accidents involving public transport vehicles.
