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

This study evaluated the impact of the Night Public Service Passenger Transport Ban on the performance of transport businesses in Lusaka, Zambia, focusing on operational performance, financial performance, and employment dynamics. An explanatory parallel mixed-method design was adopted, targeting 341 transport operators using structured questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. The questionnaire achieved a 100% response rate, while data saturation for key informant interviews was reached at 12 participants. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and thematic analysis, with purposive and stratified sampling techniques applied. Findings revealed significant operational disruptions, with 67.5% of respondents reporting reduced operating hours, 64.8% decreased trip frequency, and 70.5% reduced vehicle utilization, alongside intensified congestion during peak hours (62%). Financial performance declined markedly, as 71.8% reported reduced daily revenue, 70.4% declining profit margins, and 71.5% increased operating costs, with 69.8% struggling to meet financial obligations and 72.7% expressing concerns over long-term sustainability. Employment outcomes were similarly affected, with 71.5% indicating reduced driver working hours, 71.8% reporting income reductions, 64.2% confirming job losses, and 70.9% observing declining staff morale. The study concludes that although the ban aimed to enhance safety, it has resulted in substantial operational inefficiencies, financial instability, and labor market disruptions. It recommends the introduction of a regulated night transport permit system, strengthened targeted safety enforcement using digital monitoring technologies, and the development of supportive labor policies to enhance sector resilience.