Evaluating The Impact of Night Public Service Passenger Transport Ban on the Performance of Transport Business in Lusaka, 2021 -2025

Abstract

This study evaluated the impact of the Night Public Service Passenger Transport Ban on the performance of transport businesses in Lusaka, Zambia. Specifically, the study examined the effect on operational performance, financial performance, and employment and staffing dynamics. An explanatory parallel mixed-method design was adopted, with a sample size of 341 transport operators targeted using structured questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions (FGDs). The questionnaire received an overwhelming return rate of 100%. The data saturation principle for KII was arrived at through 12 interviewees. Descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and thematic analysis were employed to assess the extent of the ban’s effects across key performance indicators, while purposive and stratified sampling were used as sampling techniques. The findings indicate significant operational disruptions, with 67.5% of respondents agreeing and/or strongly agreeing that operating hours were reduced, 64.8% reporting decreased trip frequency, and 70.5% indicating reduced vehicle utilization. In addition, 62% confirmed intensified peak-hour congestion due to compressed operating windows. Financial performance was substantially affected, as 71.8% reported reduced daily revenue, 70.4% experienced declining profit margins, and 71.5% indicated increased operating costs. Furthermore, 69.8% reported difficulty meeting financial obligations, while 72.7% expressed concerns about long-term business sustainability. Employment outcomes also reflected notable strain, with 71.5% indicating reduced driver working hours and 71.8% reporting income reductions for workers. Approximately 64.2% confirmed job losses or staff reductions, and 70.9% observed declining staff morale. These statistical findings were buttressed by the qualitative findings in triangulation. The study concludes that while the ban may have pursued safety objectives, it has generated significant operational inefficiencies, financial instability, and labor market disruptions within Lusaka’s transport sector. The study recommends that the government, through RTSA, should introduce a regulated night transport permit system that allows compliant operators who meet strict safety standards. Furthermore, regulatory authorities should strengthen targeted safety enforcement measures, including the use of digital vehicle monitoring systems such as speed governors and GPS tracking, instead of relying mainly on blanket operational bans. Finally, policymakers and transport associations should develop supportive labor policies such as structured shift systems, driver capacity-building programs, financial literacy training, and social protection schemes to protect employment and improve the resilience of transport workers affected by reduced operating hours.