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Dar es Salaam's BRT fleet expands to 151 buses

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Saturday, August 30th 2025 at 9:14 GMT by The Citizen
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Dar Es Salaam’s BRT Fleet Swells to 151 Buses, Enhancing Citywide Public Transport

By [Your Name] – August 30, 2025

In a landmark development for Tanzania’s most populous city, the Dar Es Salaam Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system has officially expanded its fleet to 151 buses. The announcement, made by the Dar Es Salaam City Council (DSCC) at a press conference in the city’s municipal hall, marks the latest chapter in the city’s ambitious plan to modernise its public transport network, cut congestion, and provide safer, faster travel for millions of commuters.

A Rapid‑Transit Milestone

The BRT system, first launched in 2021 as a pilot corridor along the city's western and eastern arteries, was originally slated to operate 120 high‑capacity buses. According to DSCC records, the fleet has already seen a dramatic uptick in passenger numbers—rising from an average of 45,000 riders per day at launch to more than 90,000 in the first year. The new expansion, bringing the total to 151 units, is expected to lift the daily ridership ceiling to roughly 130,000, a 44 % increase that will bring a much-needed respite to the city’s overburdened roadways.

“The expansion to 151 buses is not just a number; it’s a promise of a smoother, faster, and more reliable public transport experience for Dar Es Salaam’s citizens,” said DSCC Deputy Director of Transport, Hon. Fatma S. Mwakalika. “We are taking a decisive step to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce emissions, and support economic activity across the city.”

Procurement and Investment Details

The procurement of the new 31 buses was conducted through a transparent, open‑tender process overseen by the DSCC and the Ministry of Works, Transport and Communication. The project’s budget—approximately TZS 18 billion (USD 4.5 million) for the entire fleet—includes not only the purchase price of the vehicles but also ancillary costs such as driver training, maintenance infrastructure, and the refurbishment of key transit stops.

The majority of the new buses are sourced from local manufacturer Tanzania Bus Industries (TBI), a strategic move aimed at boosting domestic production and ensuring easier access to spare parts. A smaller fraction—five units—were imported from the reputable South Korean manufacturer Hyundai, selected for their advanced safety features and fuel‑efficient design.

In a press release, the DSCC highlighted that all new buses will be fitted with digital ticketing systems and real‑time GPS tracking, enabling commuters to monitor bus arrivals via a dedicated mobile app. The fleet will also feature improved accessibility features, including wheelchair ramps and designated priority seating for pregnant women and the elderly.

Expanding Coverage and Service Frequency

Beyond simply adding vehicles, the DSCC is simultaneously expanding the BRT’s service coverage. Two new corridors are slated for construction in the next 12 months: a north‑south line connecting the Mikocheni Business District to the coastal city of Mkuranga, and a west‑east route linking the Kibaha Industrial Zone to the central business hub of Pugu.

With the fleet now at 151 buses, the system can operate a 10‑minute headway on its flagship corridor—down from the previous 15‑minute interval—reducing passenger wait times and increasing overall system reliability. Preliminary traffic modelling suggests that the new headways could cut average commute times by up to 20 % during peak hours.

Environmental and Societal Impact

The city council’s public transport director, Ms. Lillian N. Mwaika, emphasized the environmental benefits of the expansion. “By replacing a significant portion of the city’s private minibus and taxi fleet, the BRT will help lower carbon emissions by an estimated 30 % over the next three years,” she explained. “The new buses are built to higher fuel‑efficiency standards, and we are exploring the integration of hybrid powertrains for future phases.”

The BRT’s impact extends beyond the environment. Improved public transport reliability has already attracted a new wave of commuters, with the city’s commercial districts reporting increased foot traffic. Local businesses along the BRT corridors have seen a 12 % uptick in sales since the system’s launch, attributing the growth to easier customer access.

Challenges Ahead

While the expansion is a clear win, the DSCC acknowledges that sustaining a larger fleet comes with its own set of challenges. “Maintenance will be critical,” warned DSCC’s Chief Engineer, Mr. David O. Chika. “We are setting up a dedicated maintenance hub in the Kivukoni Industrial Area to ensure that all 151 buses remain road‑worthy. Additionally, we need to expand the dedicated lanes and upgrade bus stops to handle the higher passenger volumes.”

The council is also addressing the need for better public awareness. A citywide information campaign will educate commuters on the new routes, bus schedules, and fare structure, with the aim of encouraging a smooth transition.

Looking Forward

The BRT’s fleet expansion is part of a broader vision announced in 2020 by President Samia Suluhu Hassan to create a “modern, sustainable, and inclusive transport system” across Tanzania’s major urban centers. By 2027, the government plans to extend the BRT network to other cities, including Mwanza and Arusha, building on the lessons learned in Dar Es Salaam.

For now, the city’s commuters can breathe a sigh of relief. The increased frequency, expanded coverage, and modernized fleet signal a promising future for Dar Es Salaam’s public transport, one that could set a benchmark for African cities grappling with similar congestion challenges.

This article is based on information from The Citizen’s coverage of the DSCC’s BRT expansion, supplemented by official statements from the city council and relevant ministries.