The Zambia Online Taxi Drivers Association has […]

The Zambia Online Taxi Drivers Association has expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s recent establishment of a Driver’s Desk at State House, stating that the initiative has failed to address the urgent needs of the rapidly expanding online transport sector.

Speaking to the Zambian Business Times (ZBT), Association President Lucas Chanda highlighted that more than 60,000 drivers across Zambia continue to grapple with operational challenges, safety issues, and a lack of clear policy support despite the industry’s growing significance to the national economy and job market.

 “We have about 60,000 drivers countrywide. This is a huge industry, and we need serious government intervention. We have been crying and talking about the same issues over and over, but nothing concrete has been done,” said Chanda.

 He noted that drivers had initially hoped the Driver’s Desk at State House would deliver direct solutions to their longstanding concerns. However, Chanda lamented that no meaningful progress has been made since its introduction, leaving drivers disappointed and issues unresolved.

As Zambia approaches the election period and the dissolution of parliament, Chanda urged the government to prioritize the welfare of online taxi drivers, emphasizing their vital contribution to employment and urban mobility.

 He called for urgent reforms and more robust engagement between authorities and driver representatives to safeguard the future of the sector and ensure that policy keeps pace with the evolving needs of the industry.

Article by Karen Ngulube