Staff Writer
GWERU – The Passengers Association of Zimbabwe (PAZ) has raised alarm over the continued denial of free public toilet access at the Kudzanai Bus Terminal, describing the practice as both “inconvenient” and “unfair” to paying passengers.
In a strongly worded statement, PAZ president Tafadzwa Goliat said the organization has received numerous complaints from distressed commuters who are being charged to use toilets at the busy terminal — despite buses paying mandatory ranking fees to operate from the facility.
“This issue is causing serious inconvenience to passengers and affecting the smooth operation of bus services,” Goliat said.
“It has created a situation where some operators may consider avoiding the terminal altogether, or risk incurring Environmental Management Agency (EMA) penalties by resorting to alternative, unofficial stopping points.”
The association is now calling on the Gweru City Council and other responsible local authorities to urgently review the existing system.
PAZ argues that passengers in possession of valid bus tickets should be entitled to free access to clean and accessible public toilets, similar to standards observed at airports and other public transport hubs.
“A collaborative effort between authorities, bus operators, and passenger associations is crucial to finding a mutually beneficial solution,” Goliat added.
“We urge city officials to clarify whether the ranking voucher fees include passenger amenities, and if not, revise the system to ensure passengers are not unfairly burdened.”
The Kudzanai Bus Terminal is one of the country’s busiest transit points, serving thousands of commuters daily.
PAZ says the current lack of access to free and dignified sanitation facilities undermines efforts to modernize public transport and improve passenger welfare.
The association is now appealing for swift intervention to restore dignity and comfort for passengers, warning that continued inaction could erode public trust in local transport infrastructure.
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