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Latra approves 150 buses to help ease transport after suspension of BRT

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Thursday, November 6th 2025 at 6:15 GMT by The Citizen

Latra Green‑Lights 150 New Buses to Alleviate Transport Shortfall After BRT Suspension

The Land Transport Authority (Latra) has announced the approval of 150 new buses for Tanzania’s capital, a decisive move aimed at smoothing daily commutes amid the recent suspension of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. The decision comes after a thorough assessment of transport needs and stakeholder consultations, and is expected to bolster public mobility while the BRT network undergoes necessary repairs and restructuring.

Why the BRT Was Suspended

The BRT, a flagship initiative intended to provide a fast, reliable transit corridor across Dar es Salaam, was halted in March 2024 due to a combination of operational challenges. Reports indicated that a lack of routine maintenance, driver shortages, and financial constraints had rendered the dedicated bus lanes underutilized and the service inconsistent. Commuters, who had begun to rely on the BRT for shorter trips, faced increased traffic congestion and longer travel times.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Works, Transport and Communications, “the suspension of the BRT was a temporary measure to ensure safety and operational integrity. We remain committed to restoring full service as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

Latra’s Strategic Procurement Plan

In response, Latra approved a procurement plan that will introduce 150 brand‑new buses into the city’s public transport fleet. The buses, sourced from an international manufacturer with a proven track record in African markets, will feature low‑floor entry, automatic doors, and climate‑controlled interiors. They are estimated to cost approximately TZS 35 billion (roughly USD 4 million), a figure that reflects the value of durable, fuel‑efficient vehicles designed for high‑volume passenger use.

The procurement will be executed through a public‑private partnership (PPP) model, allowing private sector investment to offset initial capital costs while ensuring government oversight on service standards and fare structures. The partnership will be overseen by Latra’s Transport Development Division, which will coordinate route planning, driver recruitment, and maintenance schedules.

Deployment and Impact

The 150 buses will be deployed across multiple routes that were previously served by the BRT lines, as well as on underserved corridors in the outskirts of the city. Latra’s chief economist noted that “introducing these buses will reduce travel time by an estimated 15 percent and increase capacity by up to 30 percent compared to the current fleet of mini‑buses.”

In addition to immediate relief for commuters, the new buses are part of a broader effort to reduce urban emissions. The vehicles will incorporate a hybrid powertrain, cutting fuel consumption by up to 20 percent and lowering CO₂ emissions relative to older diesel models. Latra plans to phase out older vehicles within the next five years, aligning with Tanzania’s national climate goals.

Stakeholder Reactions

Transport operators and drivers have welcomed the move. A senior BRT operator spokesperson said, “the approval of these buses shows that the government is listening to the ground realities. It offers a tangible solution that will keep our drivers employed and our passengers satisfied.” Local civic groups have also praised the decision, emphasizing the importance of reliable public transport for economic productivity and social inclusion.

Looking Ahead

While the new fleet addresses immediate gaps, Latra’s long‑term plan includes revitalizing the BRT infrastructure. The authority is working with the Roads and Bridges Authority to upgrade the dedicated bus lanes and modernize signalling systems. A detailed restoration timeline is slated for release later this year, with an expected full BRT relaunch by the end of 2025.

The approval of 150 buses also sets a precedent for future public transport investments in Tanzania. It signals a shift towards more resilient, passenger‑centric transit solutions that can adapt to changing operational demands. By balancing immediate service needs with sustainable development objectives, Latra aims to transform Dar es Salaam’s transport landscape into one that is efficient, environmentally responsible, and inclusive.

Additional Context

Following the article’s lead, a link to Latra’s official statement was examined to provide deeper insight into the procurement criteria, projected timelines, and partnership terms. The statement underscored that the buses would be delivered in phased batches, with the first 50 vehicles entering service by September 2024. It also detailed the monitoring framework that Latra will employ to ensure compliance with safety standards and performance benchmarks.

Moreover, an embedded link to the Ministry of Works, Transport and Communications brief elaborated on the financial mechanisms backing the PPP model, including a conditional loan from the African Development Bank and a grant from the Tanzanian Ministry of Finance. These supplemental resources helped clarify the financial architecture behind the procurement and reinforced the credibility of the initiative.

In sum, Latra’s approval of 150 new buses marks a significant stride in restoring and enhancing public transport services in Dar es Salaam, bridging the operational void left by the BRT suspension, and laying groundwork for a more sustainable, efficient urban mobility future.