Tanzania’s Public Transport Challenges: How Mismanagement of “Mwendokasi” Affects Mobility and the Economy

Public transport in Tanzania, particularly the Rapid Transit in Dar es Salaam under UDART “Mwendokasi” system, has been a lifeline for millions of urban and peri-urban commuters. However, recent developments indicate that this system is struggling to meet demand, causing congestion, inefficiency, and frustration among passengers. Understanding the root causes and potential solutions is essential not only for commuters but also for investors, policymakers, and the broader economy.

Key Challenges Facing Mwendokasi

Removal of Vehicles from Existing Routes

In areas like Gerezani-Kimara, vehicles previously operating on key routes were removed, disrupting service. Instead of coordinating with the Mwendokasi system, the withdrawal of these vehicles has resulted in fewer operational units, leaving the remaining fleet unable to handle passenger volume. The consequence: overcrowding, delays, and a reduced ability to serve the public effectively.

Driver Behavior and Poor Loading Practices

Many drivers bypass designated stops or refuse to pick up passengers even when the vehicle has capacity. This behavior creates overcrowding at terminals and frustrates commuters, undermining the efficiency of the transport system.

Vehicle Maintenance and Fleet Reduction

Many vehicles are not repaired promptly when they break down, reducing the number of operational units from the initial fleet. Fewer vehicles mean longer waiting times, slower routes, and more pressure on the remaining fleet.

Weak Leadership and Management

Ineffective management at Mwendokasi has prevented timely resolution of these issues. Decisions to remove vehicles, enforce driver accountability, or oversee maintenance have not been implemented effectively, causing systemic inefficiencies.

Current Opportunities for Improvement

Recently, private investors have been given opportunities to participate in urban transport. While private investment can boost efficiency and capacity, caution is necessary. Lessons from past management failures suggest that uncoordinated privatization may replicate existing problems unless governance, oversight, and standards are enforced.

Recommendations

Strategic Coordination Between Mwendokasi and Private Operators

Instead of removing vehicles from key routes, authorities should integrate them into a coordinated system that maximizes fleet usage while maintaining route efficiency.

Enforce Driver Compliance and Accountability

Introduce strict regulations and monitoring to ensure drivers adhere to stops, pick up passengers efficiently, and maintain service standards.

Regular Maintenance and Fleet Expansion

Ensure vehicles are repaired promptly and consider expanding the fleet to match urban passenger demand. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can help fund maintenance and acquisition of new vehicles.

Strengthen Leadership and Governance

Appoint competent managers to oversee operations, enforce compliance, and implement performance-based incentives. Strong leadership is critical to prevent operational failures and maintain investor confidence.

Protect Private Investments

Any private investor entering the transport sector should operate under clear regulations to avoid repeating past mistakes, ensuring both profitability and public service.

Conclusion

Tanzania’s urban mobility depends heavily on a well-functioning Mwendokasi system. Mismanagement, vehicle shortages, and poor oversight have compromised service delivery, affecting commuters and the economy. By coordinating vehicles, enforcing driver accountability, ensuring maintenance, and strengthening leadership, the system can become more efficient and reliable.

For investors and policymakers, the message is clear: urban transport reform requires a balanced approach that protects public interest while enabling private participation. With the right strategy, Tanzania can restore efficiency, reduce congestion, and create a public transport system that meets the needs of its citizens.