Harare, (New Ziana) – Zimbabwe is set to launch a new era in urban mobility, with the government acquiring 16 electric buses as part of efforts to modernise the public transport system under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
In a post on its National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) X handle, the government said the fleet, procured through the Central Mechanical Equipment Department (CMED), will begin operating next month on a pilot route linking the University of Zimbabwe and the Harare Central Business District.
“Zimbabwe is taking a significant step towards modernizing its public transport system. The government, under President Mnangagwa, has acquired 16 electric buses through the Central Mechanical Equipment Department (CMED). These buses will initially operate on a pilot route connecting the University of Zimbabwe and Harare City Centre, starting next month. This initiative aims to provide clean, efficient, and affordable mobility, reducing congestion and promoting environmentally friendly transport. The electric buses are expected to cut travel time and restore order to urban routes,” it said.
Beyond convenience, the program carries wider economic and environmental benefits with the zero-emission buses expected to assist curb air pollution, while easing persistent traffic congestion in the capital. Improved mobility is also expected to stimulate productivity, supporting the country’s push towards an upper middle-income economy by 2030.
The CMED has confirmed plans to scale up the program nationwide once the pilot phase proves successful, with the long-term goal of establishing a modern, environmentally friendly transport network across major cities and towns.
The government says the investment demonstrates its commitment to sustainable development, better public services and infrastructure renewal, key pillars of Vision 2030.
If successful, the electric bus rollout could reshape commuting patterns, reduce transport costs and position Zimbabwe among regional leaders in green urban transport.
New Ziana
