18 May 2022

The ongoing strike by public transporters is bound to continue until an amicable solution to what they believe would cushion them from increased fuel prices is found.

Through their associations, buses, combi and taxi operators have appealed to the Ministry of Transport and Public Works to cushion them by increasing public transport fares. 

Nonetheless, they still went on strike Tuesday. In an interview, the chairperson of Gaborone Taxis Association, Mr Edson Tlhomelang said the strike would continue pending a solution. 

Mr Tlhomelang said public transport operators in the country, through their associations to the ministry on April 8, requesting for audience regarding their challenges emanating from increasing fuel prices.

 “We wanted them to intervene and come up with mechanisms to assist so that we can continue serving the community,” said Mr Tlhomelang. A meeting was convened on April 28, 2022 where they raised their concerns, he said. The meeting resolved that they would be given feedback on or before May 13 which they are still awaiting. 

He said it was unfortunate that another massive fuel increase was effected on May 12, therefore worsening their woes. As such, public transporters were left without an alternative, as they were not able to render service to the public without fuel, he said. 

“We decided to pull off the roads to avoid a situation where a taxi, combi or bus will get stuck along the way after drying out of fuel therefore leaving passengers stranded,” said Mr Tlhomelang. 

He said the current public transport fares were too long considering their costs. 

“We are currently negotiating with the ministry officials with the hope that they will oblige. Currently we are not giving service to the community and I cannot confirm how long the standoff will last,” he said. 

Responding to the public transport operators’ suspension of services, the Ministry of Transport and Public Works has stated in a press release that not all public transport operators are participating in the suspension of service. 

However, the press release advises the public to arrange alternative transport whenever the need arises. 

The press release further says the associations have assured the ministry that public transport operators offering service will not be hindered by those not operating. 

The media release further states that the ministry and public transporters will continue engaging expeditiously to find an amicable solution to the current situation. 

However there have been reports of violence meted out by striking transporters on those who are not striking. 

In the meantime, thousands of workers and students who rely on public transport are forced to adjust their schedules, waking up earlier than normal to walk long distances to reach various destinations. ends