People worry that trade and truck routes in Zimbabwe might stop working when protests start on March 31. A group from inside the ruling Zanu PF party called for these protests. Truck drivers need to stay careful as the day comes closer. If the protests last long, they could block important supply roads that many nearby countries use.
The Zimbabwe government plans to shut down these protests. They sent police all across the country to keep things quiet. Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe threatened the protest planners, calling them dangerous. The government wants to use harsh laws against anyone talking about protests on social media. Kazembe told businesses not to worry because police would stop any trouble.
Groups fighting against the government say leaders just want to crush anyone who disagrees before voting happens. The Federation of East and Southern African Road Transport Associations told truck companies not to drive around on Monday. Their spokesperson, Mike Fitzmaurice, talked to SA Trucker about the tense situation. He said police already fill the cities, and drivers should park at safe stops until they know what happens.
Recent fire attacks haven't yet messed up main truck roads, but dangers remain. Zimbabwe's highways carry goods between South Africa, Zambia, Mozambique, and Congo. Any big problems could delay gas, minerals, and important supplies, making prices jump across many countries. If protests turn rough, border crossings might face blockades or extra security checks, causing expensive delays for trucks. Some companies have already stopped sending trucks through Zimbabwe. Countries might need to find different routes if problems continue, which will cost more money and hurt supply chains already dealing with gas shortages.
The Zimbabwe government plans to shut down these protests. They sent police all across the country to keep things quiet. Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe threatened the protest planners, calling them dangerous. The government wants to use harsh laws against anyone talking about protests on social media. Kazembe told businesses not to worry because police would stop any trouble.
Groups fighting against the government say leaders just want to crush anyone who disagrees before voting happens. The Federation of East and Southern African Road Transport Associations told truck companies not to drive around on Monday. Their spokesperson, Mike Fitzmaurice, talked to SA Trucker about the tense situation. He said police already fill the cities, and drivers should park at safe stops until they know what happens.
Recent fire attacks haven't yet messed up main truck roads, but dangers remain. Zimbabwe's highways carry goods between South Africa, Zambia, Mozambique, and Congo. Any big problems could delay gas, minerals, and important supplies, making prices jump across many countries. If protests turn rough, border crossings might face blockades or extra security checks, causing expensive delays for trucks. Some companies have already stopped sending trucks through Zimbabwe. Countries might need to find different routes if problems continue, which will cost more money and hurt supply chains already dealing with gas shortages.
