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Post-Election Tension: Protests Raise Public Transport Costs in Maputo

Post-Election Tension: Protests Raise Public Transport Costs in Maputo

The post-election tension in various regions of Mozambique has led to a significant increase in the prices of semi-collective passenger transport, known locally as ‘chapeiros’, in the Greater Maputo metropolitan area. This phenomenon is severely affecting the mobility of residents, especially in strategic areas such as Zimpeto, Magoanine, Praça dos Combatentes, Baixa and Museu.

According to the newspaper Noticias, in recent days there has been a sharp increase in the number of passengers waiting for transport at these terminals, while the available vehicles take the opportunity to charge fares well above the legally stipulated rates. ‘To get to the city centre I spent over 100 meticals, when the usual fare would be less than 50. The shortage of ‘chapas’ and the exorbitant prices are unsustainable,’ lamented Rute Nhamtumbo, a resident of Zimpeto.

In places like Praça dos Combatentes and Matola, the situation is similar. Transporters, citing the need to avoid potentially dangerous areas due to the demonstrations, have opted to shorten routes and double fares, forcing many to pay twice for the same journey or face long walks.

‘The ‘chapas’ now only go as far as the Mozambican Women’s Organisation Square and charge 15 meticals. To continue to the final destination, you have to pay the same amount again,’ explained Edson da Rosa, a resident of Polana-Caniço.

In addition, the ‘Casa Branca’ stop in the Trevo neighbourhood in Matola has been the scene of desperate scenes, with transporters increasing the prices of the routes. ‘They’re charging 50 meticals from João Mateus to Baixa or the Museum, and private cars are asking for 100. Those who can’t afford it are forced to walk,’ said Belarmina Zitha, another person affected by the situation.

The carriers, without giving formal interviews, justify the changes in routes and the high prices as a direct response to the demonstrations and road blockades, arguing that it is a matter of safety to avoid risky areas where vehicles could be vandalised.

‘We’re avoiding the problem areas. The situation calls for extraordinary measures, even if the official prices haven’t changed,’ explained a driver who preferred to remain anonymous.

This transport crisis in Maputo reflects not only the immediate consequences of post-election tensions, but also highlights the vulnerability of citizens who depend on these services on a daily basis for their journeys. The relevant authorities have yet to comment on the situation, leaving the population waiting for solutions to ease this additional burden in already turbulent times.

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