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The Dar es Salaam Rapid Transit Agency (DART) has engaged the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to help bring service providers on board for the next phases of the city’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.
This collaboration marks a significant step in Tanzania’s efforts to expand and modernize public transportation in its commercial capital.
Since its launch in 2016, Dar es Salaam’s BRT system has played a crucial role in easing congestion and providing faster, more reliable public transport. The first phase, which runs from Kimara to the city centre through Morogoro Road, has already transformed daily commutes for thousands of passengers. Dedicated lanes allow buses to move without traffic delays, significantly cutting travel times compared to conventional public transport.
The second phase, which extends the service from the city centre to Mbagala, has completed infrastructure development. However, the route is not yet operational as authorities await the arrival of buses that will serve commuters in the southern parts of the city.
With plans now advancing for the third and fourth phases, the Tanzanian government has turned to IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, to help secure experienced service providers who will manage operations efficiently. The next phases are expected to further extend the BRT network, making it easier for people to move around the city while reducing reliance on private vehicles.
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The involvement of IFC is seen as a strategic move to ensure that the expansion is handled by qualified and experienced operators, improving service quality for passengers. Public-private partnerships have been a key part of the BRT model, and bringing in reputable operators is expected to enhance both efficiency and sustainability.
Traffic congestion remains a major challenge in Dar es Salaam, with some commuters spending hours on the road each day. As the city’s population grows, authorities are under increasing pressure to provide practical, long-term solutions for urban mobility. A fully operational BRT system is expected to be one of the most effective ways to address this issue, offering an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional public transport.
Although specific timelines for the third and fourth phases have not yet been announced, DART’s partnership with IFC signals a commitment to fast-tracking the expansion. With international expertise now supporting the project, residents of Dar es Salaam can look forward to a more extensive and efficient transport network in the near future.
