MPs Want Touts Registered And In Uniforms To Protect Women At Bus Ranks
Legislators in Zimbabwe have proposed the registration and uniforming of touts, commonly known as hwindis, as a way to restore order and reduce gender-based violence at the nation’s bus ranks. The proposal came after shocking reports of violent incidents at major transport hubs.
“Bus ranks have become hotspots”
During a National Assembly sitting on Wednesday, 20 August 2025, ZANU-PF Women’s Quota representative, Cde Getrude Mutandi, spoke strongly about the issue.
She said:
“Mr Speaker Sir, I rise on a matter of urgent national concern on the escalating lawlessness at urban and intercity bus ranks, which has become a breeding ground for criminality and gender-based violence, particularly targeting women, girls and the elderly.”
Cde Mutandi highlighted notorious sites including Mbare, Roadport, Showground, Dangamvura and Old Renkin, which she said had “descended into chaos.”
She added:
“Touts have overtaken local authority control, enforcing illegal levies and fostering environments of drug abuse and violence. Tragically, this breakdown has led to horrific crimes.”
Her remarks followed a recent case in which a 13-year-old girl was reportedly raped at Rezende Parkade rank.
MPs call for registration and uniforms
Cde Mutandi called for the formalisation of touts through an organised structure.
She told Parliament:
“Efforts to curb tout activity remain inconsistent and ineffective. I therefore propose immediate enforcement of criminal laws and municipal by-laws to restore order and protect passengers and formalisation of tout roles through registration, uniforms and a rank committee to ensure accountability.”
She said the introduction of uniforms would help in identifying touts, while registration would bring order and ensure accountability.
“This is growing into a crisis. The absence of law enforcement has turned bus ranks into zones of terror. Women and girls are no longer safe,” she said.
Police presence and CCTV cameras proposed
In addition to registration and uniforms, legislators also want increased police visibility at bus ranks. Cde Mutandi also called for cameras to be installed at busy commuter points.
She said:
“We need enhanced police presence at major bus termini and the installation of cameras to deter violence and safeguard commuters.”
The motion has sparked debate, with many awaiting to see whether government and local authorities will act on the proposals.
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The post Hwindis, Touts To Be Registered & Wear Uniforms: MPs Suggest To Protect Women At Bus Ranks appeared first on iHarare News.