Keetmanshoop transport operators, mainly those operating mini-buses, have decided to keep fares unchanged despite rising fuel prices in a bid to retain customers.

The operators say the industry has become overly competitive, as smaller seven-seater vehicles at times prove more popular.

Transport operator Michael Humphries said the decision was collectively made by Keetmanshoop-Windhoek route operators because while rising fuel prices continue to strain overall operating costs, their competition, the seven-seaters, are attracting more customers with their flexible prices.

"But from our side, we feel it will not work, so we are staying with the current price, which is N$270 from Keetmanshoop to Windhoek. Increasing it from N$270 to N$300 is basically chasing our customers away, and then at the end of the day we are left with nothing, and this is a collective decision from all the operators from Keetmanshoop to Windhoek."

Another transport operator, Venantius Mukanga, alleged that too many permits are being issued to seven-seater drivers, and this has caused increased competition which is making it difficult for minibus operators to survive.

"We already have a problem with seven-seaters, and now temporary permits are also being issued at N$850 per month. We are struggling with this problem. The Ministry is actually the one causing problems for us in the industry and making things difficult for operators. We need someone who can step in and help us with these issues."

We also spoke to some passengers who felt that increasing the transport fare would be a legitimate reason for mini-bus operators.

"The drivers should increase it because they are making their daily income from their business, so people must just understand that the fee will increase when the fuel prices increase."

"Because of the fuel increase, they should also increase their price because it's where they get their bread and butter."