By Suleman Chitera
Stakeholders in Balaka District have reached a landmark consensus to resolve longstanding operational challenges at Balaka Bus Depot, paving the way for the facility’s full revival after years of underutilisation.
The breakthrough followed a high-level consultative meeting convened by the Balaka District Council on Friday. The forum brought together police officers, taxi and minibus operators, civil society organisations, politicians, and business operators, all united by a shared objective: to restore order, improve service delivery, and unlock the depot’s economic potential.
Speaking after the meeting, Vice Chairperson for taxi operators Innocent Mwenitete welcomed the inclusive dialogue, noting that most disputes stem from taxis and buses competing for passengers within the same operating space.
“Conflicts arise because taxis and buses operate side by side while serving different market needs,” Mwenitete said. “Taxis carry fewer passengers, while buses carry more. Passengers often prefer smaller vehicles, which creates tension. Our proposal is simple—clear and separate space allocation to ensure smooth, peaceful operations.”
He emphasised that taxi operators are fully supportive of relocating operations to the bus depot, provided there is transparent planning and fair allocation of designated operating areas.
District Commissioner for Balaka, Bibu Yusufu Mdala, described the depot’s revival as a strategic priority for improving urban order, service efficiency, and council revenue collection.
“Our town has become congested and disorganised because some operators conduct business anywhere without proper control,” Mdala said. “As a council, we have a mandate to ensure that all businesses operate from designated areas. Revamping the bus depot is a key step toward restoring order and professionalism in Balaka.”
Mdala further highlighted that continued disorder could jeopardise planned development initiatives, including a major street lighting project along the inner bypass, which is expected to enhance safety, business hours, and the town’s overall outlook.
“With the level of disorganisation we are currently experiencing, important projects such as the inner bypass street lighting may not succeed,” he cautioned. “Order is not optional—it is essential for development.”
The District Commissioner assured stakeholders that the council will maintain open engagement with all parties to ensure a smooth transition, improved infrastructure, and an attractive, functional bus depot that benefits both operators and the travelling public.
Meanwhile, police authorities commended the collaborative approach and proposed the establishment of a permanent police unit within the Balaka Bus Depot. Such a presence, they said, would help prevent conflicts, enforce regulations, and provide rapid response whenever disputes arise.
The renewed commitment by all stakeholders marks a significant step toward transforming Balaka Bus Depot into a well-organised transport hub—one that promotes safety, efficiency, revenue growth, and sustainable urban development for the district.
