Tanzania Transport Experts Call for Better Connectivity to Rapid Transit Stations

Dar es Salaam. Transport stakeholders are urging authorities to improve connectivity systems that link commuters to rapid transit services, including the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network and the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).

The concerns arise as Tanzania continues to expand its modern transport infrastructure, yet significant gaps remain in ensuring easy access to rapid transit stations for commuters.

During the Sustainable Land Transport Week, held under the theme Clean Energy and Innovation in Transport from November 24 to 29, 2025, Prof Prosper Nyaki from the National Institute of Transport (NIT) emphasized the need for action.

"The government should establish alternative infrastructure that provides direct and seamless access to major public transport stations," he stated.

Prof Nyaki highlighted that commuters frequently spend long hours traveling from their neighborhoods just to reach rapid transit stations—a situation that undermines the purpose of investing in fast and efficient transport systems.

The country requires a reliable and uninterrupted transport chain, beginning from residential streets all the way to large transit stations, he explained.

"It is true that we have rapid buses and trains, which is a major achievement and has helped us greatly. However, the key challenge that remains is how to access the stations from our homes. Once you get to the station and board, the journey is quick, but reaching those stations is often difficult," Prof Nyaki said.

Many rapid transit stations are located far from residential areas, forcing commuters to take multiple daladala, use motorcycles, or spend several hours navigating congested access routes before their actual journey begins.

"For the future, we recommend creating alternative connecting infrastructure linking these stations to neighborhood roads, similar to what is done in more developed countries," he added.

Transport stakeholder Ms Neema Kiule noted that the time lost trying to reach areas that should be accessible within minutes diminishes productivity and affects economic output.

She emphasized the need for research and improved planning to strengthen neighborhood-level infrastructure so commuters do not face unnecessary delays, especially in large cities.

"It is true that you may have a rapid-transit ticket and be required to arrive at the station very early, but challenges arise when, for example, it rains and the road from your home becomes impassable. Suddenly, the rapid bus service cannot help you," Ms Kiule explained.

"At times, people are forced to wake up in the middle of the night to find a daladala that will take up to three hours just to reach a BRT or rail station."

The Land Transport Regulatory Authority (Latra), which is coordinating this year’s celebrations, says the event reflects its broader commitment to building safe, reliable, sustainable, inclusive and environmentally friendly land transport systems for all.