Zupco Drivers Hold On To Buses As Salary Crisis Stretches Beyond 24 Months
Drivers at the Zimbabwe United Passenger Company (ZUPCO) who have reportedly gone more than 24 months without receiving salaries are holding on to buses assigned to them, according to information published by the Masvingo Mirror on 17 August 2026.
The drivers are reportedly using the buses to generate income for their welfare while continuing to maintain them at their own expense.
Zupco Drivers Fear Losing Buses
The Masvingo Mirror reports that some drivers are sleeping in the buses and paying for fuel and repairs themselves.
They are reportedly reluctant to return the vehicles to depots because they fear the buses could remain there for extended periods while awaiting repairs.
Sources also reportedly raised concerns that buses left at depots could lose parts.
The publication further reported that ZUPCO’s workforce has fallen from about 7,000 employees a few years ago to approximately 1,500.
Zupco Fleet Faces Mounting Problems
According to the report, about 2,000 former ZUPCO workers have taken the company to court over unpaid salaries. Several reportedly obtained default judgments that resulted in company property, including buses, being attached.
The report also claimed that only 150 of the 500 buses acquired between 2019 and 2022 remain operational, with concerns raised about their roadworthiness.
Attempts to obtain comment from ZUPCO management were reportedly unsuccessful.
Workers’ Committee chairman Jameson Matapo declined to discuss the matter, saying:
“The law does not allow me to discuss company issues and besides I do not know you.”
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