By Themba Zwane
MBABANE – There was a hive of activity at the Mbabane Bus Rank on Tuesday morning as schools reopened for the 2026 academic year, with transport operators expressing mixed views on business performance.
From as early as 6am on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, pupils and adults heading to their respective workplaces began flocking the Mbabane Central Business District (CBD), boarding various modes of public transport.
The day was sunny, and pupils attending both primary and secondary schools were seen hurrying to their respective institutions. Some waited at the bus rank for kombis to transport them to school, while others made their way to nearby schools such as Hermann Gmeiner and Enhlanganisweni High School. Some pupils travelled longer distances to schools including Mhlatane High School in Pigg’s Peak and others along the Manzini corridor.
Parents and guardians were also seen accompanying younger learners, particularly those attending school for the first time in pre-schools, Grade 0, and Grade 1.
Vendors operating small businesses had their goods ready for sale, with pupils forming the bulk of their target market.
In recognition of the first day of school, some public transport operators and members of the public were seen clad in school uniforms, adding a cheerful touch to the morning atmosphere.
Interviewed randomly, public transport operators shared differing views on business activity. Some indicated that business had improved following the reopening of schools, while others felt there was little difference so far but remained optimistic that it would pick up in the coming days.
Vusi Sibanyoni, a public transport operator servicing the Mbabane–Mhlambanyatsi route, said business had improved since schools reopened.
“We are happy with business following the opening of schools. It is true that schools have just opened and we are yet to see the full turnout; nonetheless, we are optimistic that it will continue to improve,” he said.
Sibanyoni added that they were confident in their colleagues’ ability to ensure the safety of pupils during transportation, noting that operators were experienced professionals and did not anticipate accidents.
Meanwhile, Majahonkhe Ndwandwe, who services the Mbabane–Manzini route, said business had not yet picked up significantly, attributing this to financial pressure on parents.
“So far, business is not very good, as some parents are struggling financially and pupils often negotiate lower bus fares,” he said.
Ndwandwe, however, expressed hope that the situation would improve as the school term progresses. He encouraged parents to continue using public transport to ferry pupils to school, assuring them that it remains a safe mode of transport.
He also urged fellow operators to observe traffic rules, adhere to speed limits, and avoid overloading.
