Are Bodaboda Riders Above the Law On traffic Regulation

A total of 1,113 Tanzanians have lost their lives due to motorcycle accidents between 2022 and 2024. This statistic was shared by the Deputy Minister for Internal Affairs, Mr. Daniel Sillo, during a parliamentary session held in Dodoma.

The report was prompted by an inquiry from Hon. Fatma Toufiq, a member of parliament, who asked for details regarding the number of fatalities caused by motorcycle accidents during this period.

According to the data presented by Mr. Sillo, 759 motorcyclists (or riders) were killed in accidents, while 283 passengers who were traveling on the motorcycles also lost their lives. Additionally, 71 pedestrians, who were walking along the roadside or crossing streets, were hit by motorcycles and died as a result.

The Deputy Minister emphasized the urgent need for stricter adherence to traffic laws, particularly by motorcyclists, to reduce the alarming number of accidents that have not only claimed numerous lives but also severely impacted the country’s workforce.

A key issue surrounding these accidents has been the behavior of many bodaboda (motorcycle taxi) riders, and whether they are truly adhering to traffic regulations. While the bodaboda sector plays an essential role in the country’s transportation system, providing a livelihood to thousands, there has been growing concern over their disregard for traffic laws. Many people question whether bodaboda riders are above the law when it comes to following traffic regulations.

Speaking to the media wire Express a motorcycle rider based in Dar Es Salaam, Jovin Emmanuel, shared his thoughts on the root causes of road accidents involving motorcycles. He pointed to a lack of respect for the profession by some fellow riders who treat it more as a pastime rather than a serious occupation. According to Emmanuel, this attitude leads to reckless behavior on the road, including violating traffic laws, which in turn contributes to the high fatality rate. “Some riders don’t value their work, and they drive recklessly without consideration for the rules. This is why we’re seeing so many accidents,” he said.

On the other hand, Abdallah Juma, a Bajaji (auto-rickshaw) driver, explained that many motorcyclists do not have a clear understanding of traffic regulations. He added that while the profession provides a source of income for many, it is increasingly being taken up by people who lack proper training or respect for the job. “It’s sad to see young people, particularly recent graduates, resorting to motorcycle taxis because they lack employment opportunities. Unfortunately, many of them don’t follow the rules of the road, which leads to accidents,” Mr. Juma stated.

There has also been an increase in public discourse around whether bodaboda riders are above the law when it comes to traffic regulations. This perception seems to persist, as many riders continue to flout basic road safety rules like wearing helmets, respecting speed limits, or driving within the designated lanes. The issue is compounded by the fact that not all motorcyclists receive adequate training on road safety, with some entering the field without understanding the full scope of their responsibilities on the road.

Maimartha Kulwa, a businesswoman from the Mwenge area, also weighed in on the issue. She argued that young people are increasingly vulnerable to accidents because they lack the necessary skills and wisdom to navigate the roads safely. “They use motorcycles recklessly, sometimes without helmets, and often exceed speed limits,” she said. “Unless something changes, these accidents will continue to claim lives.”

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The government has urged all motorcyclists to observe traffic laws diligently, including wearing helmets and adhering to speed limits, as part of efforts to curb the rising number of road accidents. In response to this growing crisis, officials have promised to enforce stricter measures to ensure the safety of all road users. However, it remains unclear whether the bodaboda sector will fully comply with these measures.

Motorcycle accidents have become a serious public health issue in Tanzania, affecting not only those directly involved in the accidents but also their families and the wider community. The government’s call for safer road use comes at a time when the country is struggling with an increase in road-related deaths, and it’s clear that much more needs to be done to prevent further tragedies. Whether bodaboda riders will heed the government’s calls or continue to operate above the law is yet to be seen.