The public transport operators in Juba have hiked their fares citing increased fuel and spare part prices as the pound weakens against the US dollar.

According to a member of the Public Transport and Drivers Union, the body decided to increase travel tickets as the pound continues to decline against the US dollar.

Other factors it says, are the increased prices of spare parts, fuel, and goods in the market.

Abdullah Majok who is a member of the drivers’ union says the bus owners are now charging between 300 and 800 pounds depending on the distances.

He told Eye Radio, the union took the decision without consulting the Juba city council or the relevant authorities.

“We have a lot in the sector of transport because nobody cares about us, we went and inform the ministry [Transport] and City Council as a body that is responsible for us, but unfortunately nobody response to us,”  said Majok.

“Yesterday [May 22, 2023] we informed the citizens about the reasonable increase to the transport fare to cover the cost of fuel.”