Zimbabwe E-Hailing Operators Push for Formalisation

By Obey Musiwa | Harare

Zimbabwe’s e-hailing industry is pushing for formal regulation as operators seek to resolve growing tensions between app-based transport services, government authorities and local councils.

The Zimbabwe E-hailing Association (ZEHA) has submitted a self-regulation and policy proposal to the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC), calling for a structured transition towards dedicated legislation for ride-hailing services. The proposal comes as the Government moves to bring e-hailing platforms such as InDrive, Bolt and Tap & Go into Zimbabwe’s public transport regulatory framework. Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona recently told Parliament that the Road Motor Transportation Act does not specifically provide for e-hailing services.

ZEHA said its framework is intended to create a compliance bridge while formal legislation is developed, with particular emphasis on passenger safety, driver verification, tax visibility and investment confidence. ZEHA founding president (Designate) Tirivashe Mundondo said the association was not seeking exemption from regulation.

“ZEHA is not asking Government for an absence of regulation. We are offering a practical bridge to proper regulation.”

Mundondo said an e-hailing driver should be identifiable, properly licensed, linked to a verified vehicle and subject to enforceable standards. He said the proposed ZEHA credential would serve as a verification mechanism rather than protection from enforcement.

“The credential does not purchase protection. It enables an authorised officer to determine whether a driver has been verified, whether the driver’s documents remain valid and whether any compliance deadline is still open.”

The proposal also makes provision for non-ZEHA members, allowing drivers and operators outside the association to demonstrate compliance directly to the relevant government authority.

“This ensures fairness and inclusivity while the sector transitions to formal regulation,” Mundondo said.

The push for formalisation comes amid increased enforcement against e-hailing drivers in Harare. The city council has begun consultations on a regulatory framework covering services such as InDrive and Bolt, while Mayor Jacob Mafume has acknowledged that existing laws have struggled to keep pace with app-based transport.

Mafume said the city wanted e-hailing services to comply with the law while contributing towards employment, municipal revenue and infrastructure maintenance. The debate has also raised concerns about the potential cost of regulation. Participants in a recent public discussion hosted by CITE argued that any e-hailing policy should balance passenger safety and government revenue with affordability and the livelihoods of drivers, many of whom depend on ride-hailing for income.

ZEHA says Zimbabwe can achieve that balance.

“Zimbabwe does not have to choose between innovation and order. We can build an e-hailing sector that is safe for passengers, fair to drivers, visible to the fiscus and certain enough to attract investment.”

As Government considers a dedicated regulatory framework, the association says its proposals are ultimately about creating confidence among commuters, drivers, regulators and investors.

Zimbabwe e-hailing operators