Transport Fare Violations in Kinshasa: A Call for Government Intervention
The new transport fare set by the provincial government of Kinshasa is being blatantly disregarded by many drivers at various bus stops in the province. Commuters on Sainte-Thérèse Road in Ndjili commune are voicing their frustration over the lack of compliance with this regulation and the growing issue of “halfway stops,” which are becoming increasingly common.
According to residents in this area of the capital, authorities need to establish monitoring mechanisms and involve law enforcement officers to ensure the implementation of this measure. Florent Mbuyi, an engineer, emphasized the need for government action and stricter measures to address this situation. He highlighted instances where passengers are forced to take multiple taxis to reach their destinations due to inflated fares.
Student Struggles with Increased Transport Costs
Chancelvie Lukau, a student at the Higher School of Commerce in Kinshasa, shared her challenges with the rising transport prices. She expressed the difficulties she faces in finding affordable bus taxis, forcing her to leave home as early as 5 am to secure a lower fare. The changes in routes and pricing have made commuting more burdensome for students like her, urging the provincial government to take responsibility and enforce pricing regulations to alleviate the financial strain on residents.
Driver’s Perspective on Fare Hikes
Baba Diego, a taxi-bus driver, shed light on the reasons behind the fare increases, citing traffic congestion, maintenance costs, and financial pressures on drivers as contributing factors. He explained the necessity for drivers to resort to halfway stops to generate income amid challenging conditions on Kinshasa’s roads. Diego emphasized the complexities faced by drivers and the need for understanding from both government officials and passengers.
Government’s Efforts to Enforce New Fare Structure
The provincial government of Kinshasa introduced a new tariff schedule for public transport on January 7, 2025. The fixed price for the Ndjili-Sainte-Thérèse route is set at 1000 Congolese francs. To ensure compliance with the new fare structure, the government has implemented several measures, including displaying fare rates and routes inside vehicles, limiting the number of passengers per vehicle, and prohibiting practices like halfway stops and overcharging.
In conclusion, the challenges faced by commuters, drivers, and government officials in Kinshasa highlight the need for collaborative efforts to address issues related to transport fares and ensure fair and affordable transportation for all residents.
Grâce GUKA