Kariakoo Businesses to Operate 24 Hours to Boost Trade

Dar Es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila has announced that businesses in Kariakoo will now operate 24 hours a day.

The decision, which took effect immediately, is expected to create more opportunities for traders, improve convenience for customers, and strengthen the city’s overall economic flow.

Speaking during a meeting with business owners, artists, and journalists, Chalamila highlighted the importance of extending business hours in one of Tanzania’s busiest commercial districts.

“This move is designed to expand economic opportunities and allow businesses to thrive in a more flexible environment,” he said. “We want to create a city that never sleeps, where people can trade and shop at any time without limitations.”

Kariakoo is known as a major trade hub in Tanzania, drawing shoppers and vendors from across the country and beyond. The introduction of round-the-clock business hours is expected to boost sales and accommodate a broader customer base, including those who may not have been able to shop during traditional business hours.

To ensure the safety of traders and customers, Chalamila assured that the government has put measures in place to strengthen security in the area.

“We have reinforced security patrols and increased law enforcement presence to guarantee safety for everyone conducting business at any hour,” he said. “This initiative will only succeed if people feel secure while trading and shopping.”

While the decision has been welcomed by many business owners who see it as an opportunity to increase their earnings, others have expressed concerns about the challenges of running their operations 24 hours a day. Some traders worry about additional costs, staff management, and whether customer demand will justify staying open all night.

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“This could be a great opportunity, but we need to think about the practical side,” said Joseph, a shop owner in Kariakoo. “Will we have enough customers to cover the extra costs? And how will small businesses afford to hire more staff for night shifts?”

In response to these concerns, the government is looking into ways to support businesses through improved infrastructure, financing options, and regular consultations with traders to ensure the transition is smooth.

The move is part of a broader effort to modernize Dar es Salaam’s economy and strengthen its position as a key business center in the region. With other developments like the Dar Rapid Transit (DART) system improving accessibility, the city is gradually evolving into a more dynamic commercial hub.