Breaking News: Dar es Salaam’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) System in Crisis
The city’s much-anticipated public transportation solution is facing unprecedented challenges, leaving residents frustrated and questioning the project’s effectiveness. Since its launch in 2016, the BRT system has struggled to meet the growing transportation needs of Dar es Salaam.
Chronic Bus Shortage Sparks Public Outrage
Commuters are experiencing extreme difficulties, with passengers often forced to crowd into overloaded buses, sometimes dangerously clinging to windows. The situation reached a breaking point on October 1, 2025, when frustrated residents resorted to stone-throwing, damaging buses and stations.
Key Issues Plaguing the Transportation System:
– Significant reduction in operational buses from an initial 140 to just 30
– Unreliable electronic ticketing system
– Frequent leadership changes
– Unfulfilled promises of fleet expansion
Government Intervention and New Leadership
President Samia Suluhu Hassan has taken decisive action by appointing new leadership, including Said Tunda as Chief Executive Officer of Dart and Pius Ng’ingo as Managing Director of Udart. Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has issued strict directives, mandating that buses must operate continuously, even with minimal passenger numbers.
The government has committed to adding 60 new buses, bringing the total fleet to 90, in an attempt to address the ongoing transportation crisis.
Experts Weigh In
Urban planning and economic experts argue that the project requires a fundamental restructuring. Recommendations include:
– Separating political interference from technical management
– Exploring sustainable funding models
– Implementing comprehensive accountability measures
Challenges Ahead
The BRT system continues to face significant obstacles, including expired bus service lifespans, flood-damaged vehicles, and low fare rates that impact operational sustainability.
As Dar es Salaam watches closely, the success of these new interventions remains to be seen, with residents hoping for a long-overdue transformation of the city’s public transportation system.
