By Chipo Gudhe

In a bid to tackle the escalating issue of pirate Gokwe plying taxis operating in the city, Kwekwe Mayor Dr Henry Madzorera has promised to take decisive action to restore sanity and alleviate congestion in the Central Business District (CBD).

The proliferation of illegal taxis, known as mushika-shika, has become a significant problem in Kwekwe, causing disruptions and worsening traffic conditions. These unlicensed vehicles operate from undesignated points, further compounding the issue.

Madzorera speaking at a business conference on Friday emphasized the urgent need for the council to tackle this issue head-on.

“Measures will be taken to rid the city of these pirate taxis and ban them in our city, this is not Gokwe. These pirate taxis have been causing havoc and congestion in our CBD for far too long,” said Mayor Madzorera.

“It is high time we take action to curb their activities and bring order back to our streets. We will deal with them,” he said.

Residents and business owners have been heavily impacted by unauthorized taxi operations. The chaotic presence of pirate taxis has resulted in frequent traffic jams, increased pollution, and compromises in safety standards.

Madzorera said he was nearly injured by one of the pirate taxis which move around with doors open soliciting for customers.

Kwekwe like the rest of other cities in Zimbabwe lacks a comprehensive and sustainable transportation system, a development which has created an opportunity window for these pirate taxis.

Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has made a total of 59 377 arrests under the ongoing operation “Tame the Traffic Jungle,” meant to crack down on mushika shika.