Govt releases draft rules to regulate e-hailing sector

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Development has released a draft of the E-Hailing Regulations following a Government directive to regulate e-hailing services in line with regional and international standards.

In September, Cabinet gave e-hailing transport operators a five-month reprieve to allow the Government to review regulations governing the growing sector, with authorities saying the services will continue operating during the period.

The five-month moratorium applied to platforms such as Bolt, inDrive, Tap & Go, GoFaster and KOSE, among others.

Under the draft regulations, only drivers who have held a valid driver’s licence for at least five years will be allowed to drive for e-hailing services like inDrive.

Other proposals include a minimum driver age of 21, special permits for drivers and new passenger safety requirements.

The government says the new rules are needed to strengthen oversight and compliance with tax and transport laws.

On registration, all e-hailing platforms must be accredited by the Government. Foreign platforms must register locally and appoint a local representative. Accreditation will be valid for three years.

On driver requirements, drivers must be at least 21 years old and must have held a valid driver’s licence for at least five years. They must also have a defensive driving certificate and a medical fitness certificate.

Drivers must obtain a special e-hailing driver’s permit and must be Zimbabwean citizens.

On passenger safety and registration, platforms must have emergency buttons, real-time tracking and a 24-hour safety response centre. Drivers must undergo identity verification.

Passengers must register using their full names and a verified mobile number. National ID or passport details will be required for cash bookings and trips between 9 pm and 5 am.

Children under 18 cannot register their own accounts.