Justice Lab Zambia and representatives of the motorcycle rider community in Ndola paid a courtesy call on The Copperbelt Province Minister Hon. Elisha Matambo, aimed at addressing key challenges affecting the sector and identifying pathways toward formalisation and sustainable growth.
The meeting brought together biker union leaders, riders, and advocacy groups, who presented a petition outlining the major barriers facing motorcycle operators. Among the issues raised were high registration and licensing costs, complex compliance procedures, difficulties in registering second-hand motorcycles, and limited access to affordable financing for compliant bikes. Riders also highlighted the impact of heavy fines, restricted operating zones, and the presence of illegal daily levies at some stations.
Safety and regulatory compliance formed a key part of the discussion, with rider representatives acknowledging existing gaps such as lack of licensing and protective gear, largely attributed to financial constraints. The delegation expressed readiness to transition into a fully compliant and regulated sector, provided that structural and financial barriers are addressed.
Speaking during the meeting, Hon. Matambo commended the riders for taking a proactive and organised approach in engaging the government, noting that their willingness to formalise operations is a positive step toward improving livelihoods and strengthening the sector’s contribution to the economy.
“We recognise the important role motorcycle riders play in supporting livelihoods and mobility within our communities. What is encouraging is that the riders themselves are stepping forward to normalise their operations and work within the law. As government, our role is to support this transition by creating an enabling environment that makes compliance achievable, while ensuring safety and accountability across the sector. The President’s vision is to ensure that every Zambian has an opportunity to improve their livelihood through meaningful economic participation, and initiatives like this, where young people are organising themselves and seeking to operate legally, are exactly what we want to support as we work to enable young Zambians to build sustainable businesses and create jobs,” said Hon. Matambo.
Speaking on behalf of the riders, Gift Phiri, Secretary of the Biker Association of Ndola, said the community is eager to regularise its operations but continues to face significant challenges.
“We have been struggling with the registration of our motorcycles, and this has made it difficult for many riders to operate properly. That is why we have come together to appeal to government for support and guidance. Submitting this petition is part of our effort to find a lasting solution and ensure that we can operate legally and sustainably,” he said.
The Minister further confirmed that his office will engage relevant ministries, including Transport and Logistics, Finance, Commerce, and Local Government, to develop coordinated responses to the issues raised. Key focus areas will include simplifying registration processes, reviewing associated costs, addressing illegal practices, and strengthening safety standards across the sector.
An inter-ministerial meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, 6 May 2026, which will bring together government officials, rider representatives, and other stakeholders to develop concrete, actionable proposals aimed at improving the operating environment for motorcycle riders.
The engagement marks an important step in fostering collaboration between government and the motorcycle taxi sector, with a shared goal of creating a more inclusive, regulated, and economically viable industry that benefits both operators and the wider community.
