Joseph Isangura
The Minister of State in the President’s Office for Regional Administration and Local Government (TAMISEMI), Mohamed Mchengerwa, has directed the Dar Rapid Transit Agency (DART) to prioritize local investors in the procurement of new buses.
This directive comes with a firm deadline of December 2024, by which time the new buses are expected to be operational.
Speaking at the launch of a new digital ticketing system, Minister Mchengerwa emphasized the critical role that local investors can play in enhancing the city’s public transportation infrastructure. The new system, which aims to streamline the ticket purchasing process, is expected to significantly reduce the inconveniences faced by commuters, including long wait times and the risk of losing their money at the city’s bus rapid transit (BRT) stations.
“The time has come for us to involve our own people in solving the challenges we face,” said Mchengerwa during the launch event. “By December 2024, we expect to see more locally-owned buses on the road, easing the daily struggles of Dar es Salaam’s commuters.”
The introduction of the digital ticketing system is a crucial step toward modernizing the city’s transport network. The system will allow passengers to purchase tickets via mobile platforms, thereby reducing the need for cash transactions at bus stops. This change is anticipated to enhance efficiency and security for both passengers and service providers.
Minister Mchengerwa’s call to action highlights the government’s commitment to fostering local participation in key infrastructure projects. The move is seen as a way to not only improve the public transport system but also to stimulate economic growth by providing local businesses with opportunities to invest in the sector.
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As Dar es Salaam continues to grow, the demand for reliable and efficient public transport becomes increasingly critical. The city’s current transportation system has struggled to keep up with the needs of its rapidly expanding population, leading to frequent complaints from residents about overcrowded buses and long wait times.
The new buses, which will be integrated into the DART system, are expected to alleviate these issues by increasing the frequency of services and reducing congestion on the roads. Local investors, who have been encouraged to take part in this initiative, will play a key role in this expansion, providing both the capital and expertise needed to bring these plans to fruition.
In addition to addressing transportation challenges, the involvement of local investors is also expected to create jobs and support the local economy.
