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Tanzania Adds 99 Buses to Boost Dar es Salaam BRT System

Tanzania Bolsters Public Transport with Arrival of 99 New Buses for BRT System

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – In a significant boost to the country's urban mobility infrastructure, Tanzanian authorities have officially confirmed the arrival of 99 state-of-the-art buses designated for the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services. This development marks a pivotal step in addressing the perennial challenges of traffic congestion, unreliable public transport, and the growing demand for efficient commuting options in one of East Africa's busiest cities, Dar es Salaam. The buses, which have been eagerly anticipated by commuters and transport stakeholders alike, are expected to enhance the operational capacity of the BRT network, providing faster, more reliable, and environmentally friendly travel alternatives for thousands of daily users.

The confirmation came from high-ranking officials within the Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanroads) and the Ministry of Works and Transport, who highlighted the strategic importance of this acquisition. According to statements released by the government, these buses are part of a broader initiative to expand the BRT system, which has been operational in Dar es Salaam since 2016. The initial phase of the BRT, spanning approximately 21 kilometers from Kimara to the city center, has already demonstrated substantial benefits, including reduced travel times and decreased reliance on private vehicles. However, capacity constraints have often led to overcrowding and delays, issues that the new fleet aims to mitigate.

The 99 buses were procured through a collaborative effort involving international partnerships and funding mechanisms. While specific details on the suppliers were not immediately disclosed, sources indicate that the vehicles are modern, high-capacity models equipped with advanced features such as air conditioning, wheelchair accessibility, and real-time GPS tracking. These enhancements are designed to improve passenger comfort and safety, aligning with global standards for sustainable urban transport. The buses are expected to be integrated into the existing BRT corridors, with potential extensions to new routes that could connect underserved suburbs to key economic hubs like industrial zones, markets, and educational institutions.

This influx of buses is not just a logistical upgrade but a response to the rapid urbanization and population growth in Dar es Salaam, which is home to over six million residents and serves as Tanzania's commercial epicenter. Traffic jams in the city are notorious, often turning short commutes into hours-long ordeals, contributing to economic losses estimated in the billions of shillings annually due to lost productivity and fuel wastage. By bolstering the BRT fleet, the government aims to encourage a modal shift from private cars and informal minibuses (known locally as daladalas) to a more organized public system. This could significantly reduce carbon emissions, aligning with Tanzania's commitments under international climate agreements to promote green transportation.

Transport experts have lauded the move, noting that it builds on the successes of the first BRT phase. For instance, since its inception, the system has transported millions of passengers, with reports indicating a 20-30% reduction in travel time along dedicated lanes. Commuters like Aisha Mwinyi, a daily user from the outskirts of the city, expressed optimism: "These new buses will make a big difference. Right now, we wait too long, and the buses are always full. More buses mean less stress and more time for work and family." Such sentiments underscore the human impact of improved infrastructure, particularly for low-income earners who rely heavily on affordable public transport.

The government's vision for the BRT extends beyond the current additions. Plans are underway for Phase 2 and beyond, which could extend the network to over 100 kilometers, incorporating routes to areas like Bagamoyo Road and Morogoro Road. This expansion is supported by funding from development partners, including the World Bank and the African Development Bank, which have invested heavily in Tanzania's transport sector. The arrival of these 99 buses is seen as a precursor to these larger projects, with officials emphasizing the need for timely maintenance and operator training to ensure long-term sustainability.

Challenges, however, remain. Critics point out that while new buses are welcome, issues such as road encroachments, enforcement of dedicated lanes, and integration with other transport modes need urgent attention. There have been past incidents of private vehicles infringing on BRT lanes, leading to accidents and inefficiencies. Additionally, the affordability of fares is a concern, with calls for subsidies to keep tickets accessible to all socioeconomic groups. The government has assured that measures are in place to address these, including stricter traffic regulations and public awareness campaigns.

In the broader context of Tanzania's development agenda, this BRT enhancement aligns with President Samia Suluhu Hassan's administration's focus on infrastructure-led growth. The country has been investing in roads, railways, and ports to position itself as a regional logistics hub. The BRT system, inspired by successful models in cities like Bogotá and Johannesburg, represents a homegrown adaptation to local needs, emphasizing inclusivity and efficiency.

Looking ahead, the deployment of these buses is slated for the coming months, following necessary inspections and route optimizations. Transport Minister Leonard Chamuriho has reiterated the commitment to transforming Dar es Salaam's transport landscape: "This is more than just buses; it's about building a future where mobility is a right, not a privilege." As Tanzania continues to urbanize at a rapid pace, initiatives like this could serve as a blueprint for other cities in the region, fostering economic vitality and improving quality of life.

The arrival of these 99 buses is a testament to the power of strategic investments in public infrastructure. It promises not only immediate relief to commuters but also long-term benefits in terms of environmental sustainability, economic productivity, and social equity. As the BRT system evolves, it could very well become the backbone of urban transport in Tanzania, setting the stage for a more connected and prosperous nation. (Word count: 852)

Read the Full The Citizen Article at:
[ https://www.thecitizen.co.tz/tanzania/news/national/tanzania-confirms-arrival-of-99-buses-for-brt-services-5146418 ]