Title: Mobilization of taxi drivers in Bukavu: a day without taxis to protest against the rise in fuel prices
Introduction :
The city of Bukavu, capital of the province of South Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, was the scene of an unprecedented mobilization this Monday, October 30. Taxi and bus drivers have decided to observe a taxi-free day to express their displeasure over rising fuel prices, which has led to an increase in public transport fares in the city. This blatant protest action aims to raise awareness among local authorities of the financial difficulties faced by drivers and the harmful consequences for the population.
The cry of the taxi drivers:
Taxi drivers in Bukavu denounce the surge in fuel prices which has reached new heights in recent times. The price of fuel increased from 3,500 to more than 5,000 FC (Congolese francs), which forced drivers to increase their prices. However, passengers refuse to pay these new fares, leading to financial losses for drivers. It is therefore to alert the authorities to this unbearable situation that the drivers have chosen strong action by observing a taxi-free day.
The citizens’ initiative for change:
This mobilization was initiated by Simama Grands and the urban civil society of Bukavu, two organizations engaged in defending the interests of citizens. They wish to draw the attention of the authorities concerned to the need to revise fuel prices in order to relieve the population and drivers. The organizers are demanding a reduction in the price of fuel to a more acceptable level, around 2500 to 3000 FC. They also call on the Ministry of the Economy to take measures in line with the current situation.
Difficult traffic and popular support:
The day without a taxi impacted traffic on many roads in the city of Bukavu, making travel particularly complicated. The organizers welcome the population’s respect for their slogan and promise to toughen actions if no solution is found. This mobilization demonstrates the solidarity of the inhabitants of Bukavu and their support for taxi drivers.
Conclusion :
The taxi-free day in Bukavu was a strong manifestation of drivers’ discontent with the rise in fuel prices. This action aims to raise awareness among the authorities of the financial difficulties faced by drivers, as well as the harmful consequences for the population. The organizers of this mobilization hope that their cry will be heard and that measures will be taken quickly to relieve taxi drivers and public transport users.. The plight of taxi drivers in Bukavu once again highlights the importance of fair management of fuel prices for the economic well-being of all.