Tanzania's Transport Sector Embraces Digital Integration to Boost Transparency and Efficiency
Tanzania is taking significant steps toward modernizing its transport sector by implementing a unified online ticketing system. This initiative, part of broader efforts to enhance transparency and reduce revenue leakages, is being integrated with the government’s digital platform. The move aims to streamline operations across various modes of transport, including railways, buses, and other public services.
At the 49th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (DITF), Prof Godius Kahyarara, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport, emphasized the importance of e-ticketing systems in monitoring revenue. “This system is crucial. It allows the government to monitor in real time how many buses or trains are operating, and how many tickets are being issued,” he stated. The integration of these systems is seen as a key component in ensuring efficiency and accountability within the transport industry.
The Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) and several private bus operators have already adopted the platform, with Tazara expected to join soon. Prof Kahyarara highlighted the success of the system during his visit to the Land Transport Regulatory Authority (Latra) pavilion at the fair. “I saw how the unified ticketing system is working. It has generated a lot of interest. I commend the authority for the progress made towards integrating SGR, MGR, buses, and now Tazara into one ticketing system,” he said.
Legal Requirements for All Operators
Prof Kahyarara also warned that the integration of e-ticketing systems is not optional but a legal requirement. “This is not optional. It is a legal requirement. The government will take steps to ensure all licensed operators join the system,” he added. The directive is aimed at ensuring compliance across the board, with non-compliant operators facing potential consequences.
The platform is designed to eliminate the use of unregulated agents or touts, who have been known to cause revenue loss and service inconsistencies. By introducing a centralized system, the government hopes to lower costs, improve transparency, and make service delivery more reliable. Passengers, operators, and government authorities are all expected to benefit from this transition.
Ensuring Compliance and Safety
Mr Habibu Suluo, the Director General of Latra, reiterated the importance of using only approved online service providers. He warned operators against using unapproved vendors, stating that penalties would be enforced after the inspection grace period ends. “Operators must use only approved online service providers to avoid disruptions. This is about enforcing the law and ensuring passenger safety and convenience,” he said.
As of July 2, Latra had authorized only three companies to operate within the centralized system: Ottap Agency Company Limited, Hashtech Tanzania Limited, and Iyishe Company Limited. A 14-day ultimatum has been issued to six other companies to complete their integration with the government’s ticketing platform or risk losing their licenses.
Benefits of the Unified System
The implementation of the unified ticketing system is expected to bring several benefits to the transport sector. By centralizing ticket sales, the system reduces the chances of fraud and ensures that revenue is accurately tracked. Additionally, it provides passengers with a more seamless experience, as they can access tickets through a single platform regardless of the mode of transport.
For operators, the system offers a more efficient way to manage their services, reducing administrative burdens and improving customer satisfaction. The government, on the other hand, gains better oversight of the sector, allowing for more effective policy-making and enforcement.
Overall, the shift toward digital integration marks a significant milestone in Tanzania’s efforts to modernize its transport infrastructure. As more operators join the system, the country is likely to see improved efficiency, greater transparency, and enhanced service quality across its transportation network.
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