Loans to Swap Honda Fits for Toyota Quantums: Parly Committee Proposes Bold Plan
The government may soon introduce a radical plan to phase out unregistered “mushikashika” taxis by offering loans to swap Honda Fits for safer Toyota Quantums. This proposal, spearheaded by the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Transport and Infrastructural Development, seeks to revolutionise Zimbabwe’s chaotic transport sector.
Committee Chairperson, Cde Knowledge Kaitano, explained the rationale during a recent session:
“This applies to pirate taxi (mushikashika) players where the Government can eliminate the Honda Fits, Sientas, NV150 and NV250 from the road by offering their owners, say, a safer Toyota Quantum for every four pirate taxis owned,” he said.
A Safer, Regulated Future
The Chronicle reports that this was inspired by South Africa’s model for upgrading Toyota Siyaya vehicles to Quantums, the proposed scheme is expected to improve safety, reduce traffic congestion, and promote accountability. Under the plan, operators of unregistered Honda Fits could trade in their vehicles for Toyota Quantums, with the price difference financed by government-backed loans.
“This initiative will eliminate illegal taxis, reduce accidents, and bring much-needed regulation to the transport sector,” added Cde Kaitano.
Illegal taxis, often associated with traffic chaos, have become a thorn in urban areas like Bulawayo, where they are notorious for picking up and dropping off passengers in unauthorised locations.
The proposal has garnered mixed reactions from stakeholders, including transport operators and commuters.
Mixed Responses from Stakeholders
Some mushikashika operators voiced concerns about the financial feasibility of the plan. A Bulawayo-based operator explained:
“I generate around US$30 daily per Honda Fit, which makes it about US$120 for four vehicles. A kombi generates only about US$50–US$60 per day, so it’s more profitable to operate Honda Fits.”
He also questioned how the scheme would be implemented, particularly the selection criteria and the potential financial burden on the government.
Commuters, meanwhile, highlighted the convenience offered by Honda Fits. A Burnside resident commented:
“Honda Fits provide door-to-door services for a small extra fee, which is convenient for me since there are no kombis in my area.”
Despite these reservations, others see the plan as a necessary step toward a better transport system.
Expriccos Taxis chairman, Mr Mpikelelo Khumalo, endorsed the proposal, stating:
“This is a noble and brilliant idea that should be embraced by all unregistered operators. Accountability is vital in any business, and once illegal operators are eradicated, the industry will flourish on a win-win basis.”
He encouraged operators to collaborate and present a united front to facilitate the scheme’s implementation.
Addressing High Compliance Costs
One of the significant barriers to the plan’s success is the high cost of legal compliance for small operators. According to the committee, a kombi requires approximately US$1,600 annually for permits and an additional US$3,800 for Vehicle Inspection Department (VID) certification. These costs often deter small operators from legalising their businesses.
To streamline the process, the committee suggested creating an online “One-Stop Shop” for document applications, linking local authorities and the Road Motor Transportation Department (RMT).
“This move will reduce bureaucratic delays and make it easier for operators to comply,” said a committee spokesperson.
Looking Ahead
While the proposal is still in its infancy, it has sparked widespread debate among transport stakeholders and the public. Supporters argue that it could lead to a safer, more organised transport sector, while critics worry about its financial and practical feasibility.
For now, the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Transport is urging all stakeholders to come together, iron out concerns, and work towards implementing a plan that benefits operators, commuters, and the nation at large.
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