ZIMSEC leaves transporters in the lurch

Zim Now Writer

The Zimbabwe School Examinations Council is facing a backlash from transporters who were contracted to distribute 2024 examination papers across the country. Despite promises of prompt payment, the transporters claim they have not received their dues, sparking concerns over the examination body's financial management.

In October last year, Zimsec engaged private vehicle owners to deliver examination papers for Grade Seven, Ordinary, and Advanced levels. The transporters were promised payment at varying daily rates, but four months on, they are still waiting to be paid.

The delay has caused significant hardship for the transporters, who incurred substantial costs during the deployment. "I hired out my car to Zimsec for 30 days and was promised payment immediately after rendering the service," said one transporter, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "I desperately need the money to pay school fees for my children."

The transporters are frustrated by the lack of communication from Zimsec, which has left them in the dark about their payment status. "Zimsec showed urgency in collecting our details for payment purposes, but now they are not responding to our queries," said another transporter.

The amounts owed to the transporters vary according to distance covered and route, with some claiming they are owed substantial amounts in both local currency and US dollars. A Matabeleland North-based vehicle owner said she had visited Zimsec's regional offices several times, only to be met with silence.

Zimsec spokesperson Nicky Dlamini has advised affected transporters to contact the examination body for clarification on their individual payments. However, the transporters are demanding more urgent action, citing the impact of inflation on the value of their earnings.