Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has called for a shift in how government transport is managed, urging employers to invest in regular training for drivers to keep pace with modern vehicle technology and reduce costly inefficiencies.
Speaking in Dodoma while opening the Fourth Congress of the Government Drivers Association of Tanzania (CMST), Majaliwa stressed that drivers need continuous capacity-building to handle modern vehicles equipped with advanced technology.
He said such training is not only about safety but also about ensuring public resources are used wisely.
“Modern systems, new equipment, and advanced machines demand new knowledge. TEMESA will support in this area, but employers must take responsibility for ensuring drivers are trained,” Majaliwa said.
The Prime Minister directed government institutions to establish proper maintenance programs and daily schedules that give drivers time to rest, noting that fatigue contributes to accidents and costly repairs.
“A disciplined, well-trained driver is not only protecting lives but also saving the government money,” he added.
Minister of Works Abdallah Ulega said the congress was an opportunity to reflect on how drivers can contribute to efficiency in the public sector.
“Government drivers are the backbone of daily operations. Without them, the safe and timely movement of leaders and staff would be impossible,” Ulega said, highlighting the importance of gender equity in hiring and the safe use of modern vehicles.
The CMST Secretary, Castro Nyabange, urged the government to go further by making training budgets mandatory in all ministries and agencies.
He said this would cut repair costs, improve safety, and extend the life of government vehicles.
The association, founded in 2013 and formally registered in 2015, now counts 8,387 members nationwide.
This year’s congress is held under the theme: “Government Driver, Avoid Accidents, Protect Your Vehicle and Other Road Users, and in October Participate in the General Election.”
Analysts note that Tanzania spends billions annually on vehicle maintenance and fuel for government fleets, and reforms in management starting with well-trained drivers could help reduce waste.
By linking professional conduct, modern skills, and patriotism, the government hopes to transform the role of drivers from behind-the-wheel operators to partners in efficiency.
