The government has brought back Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) buses on intercity routes in Gweru, offering commuters some much-needed relief with fares of just US$0.50 per trip, compared with the US$1 charged by kombi operators.
The move comes after fuel price hikes saw commuter omnibus operators double their fares from US$0.50 to US$1.
Speaking to the Chronicle, Gweru District Development Coordinator Tarisai Mudadigwa said the reintroduction of ZUPCO buses is aimed at cushioning residents against rising transport costs. Said Mudadigwa:
“ZUPCO buses have resumed operations for intercity routes in Gweru to provide relief for commuters who are now being charged between US$0.75 and US$1 following the recent fuel price hike. Commuters are paying US$0.50 for the same route.
Henry Daka, a resident of Mkoba 20, welcomed the return of ZUPCO buses but said that the fleet is limited and currently operates only between 8 AM and 8 PM.
He suggested the buses should run from as early as 5 AM and late into the night to better serve commuters.
Meanwhile, transport operator Amos Muzenda defended the recent fare hike, saying it was a necessary response to the rising fuel prices. He said:
“We are just merely responding to market forces. We feel the plight of the commuters, but we are in business to make a profit.
“As you are aware, the global fuel market has been unstable in recent weeks due to the ongoing conflict in Iran.”
On 4 March 2026, ZERA increased the price of diesel from US$1.52 to US$1.77 per litre, while petrol rose from US$1.56 to US$1.71. Then, on Wednesday, 18 March, diesel jumped again to US$2.05, with petrol climbing to US$2.17 per litre.
The ripple effects are being felt across multiple sectors, particularly transport, where operators frequently pass the higher fuel costs on to commuters.
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