TRANSPORT mogul and Zanu PF central committee member Esau Mupfumi has moved to ease transport woes in Mutare by introducing cheap bus services, following a 100% fare increase by commuter omnibus operators.
Through his buses, Gold Class, Mupfumi has been applauded for helping residents in the Dangamvura area to access affordable transport.
Kombis were charging US$1 from Dangamvura to Sakubva and the central business district (CBD), up from US$0,50.
The fare hike had taken a toll on commuters, particularly learners who have to move between Sakubva and the CBD.
Residents also applauded MDTA Kombis, which did not adjust fares.
A Dangamvura resident, Tendai Masamvu, whose child is a learner at a primary school near the CBD, expressed appreciation for Mupfumi's decision.
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“I am happy with the initiative that has been taken by Dr Esau Mupfumi. Kombis are charging US$1 to the CBD and Sakubva, but his buses are charging US$0,50,” he said.
“Mupfumi has complemented the efforts of one kombi service, namely MDTA, which has kept fares at US$0,50.”
Parents with pupils at Sakubva High 1, Elise Glen Hill, Sakubva High 2, St Dominic’s, Boys High School, First Class, Mutare Junior Primary, Versatile and others, have also benefited.
Mupfumi said he was ready to help the community.
“I am always eager to help my community,” the former Dangamvura/Chikanga MP said.
“I am always on the ground assessing the situation.
“That is why I discovered that some operators are taking advantage of our residents and parents.”
This is not the first time Mupfumi has helped residents.
He sometimes offers the elderly free transport.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mupfumi played a key role by providing free transport.