Tanzania lifts ban on 24-hours bus operation after decades

Tanzania has lifted the long-standing ban on night-time upcountry bus travel.

The decision was announced by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa in parliament, who highlighted that the ban, initially imposed in the 1990s, was a response to the escalating number of road accidents and bus hijackings.

The lifting of the ban comes after thorough consideration of input from various stakeholders in the transport sector, alongside marked improvements in infrastructure and security.

Prime Minister Majaliwa emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting safer and more efficient travel options for citizens, noting that advancements in infrastructure and security measures have contributed to the reassessment of the night travel prohibition.

The uplifting of this decades-long ban is expected to have a substantial impact on the country’s transport sector, with potential benefits in terms of economic growth and enhanced travel options for passengers.

The association of Tanzanian bus owners has expressed their wholehearted support for this positive change, anticipating a boost in business opportunities and overall improvements in the industry.

Africanews/Hauwa M.