By Our Reporter, Dodoma
The government is preparing a campaign to regulate unauthorized sirens and vehicle number plates, Interior Minister Patrobas Katambi said, emphasizing the importance of following road safety laws and regulations.
Speaking during his first visit to the Fire and Rescue Force after his appointment by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Minister Katambi highlighted concerns over private vehicles using sirens that are not recognized under road safety rules. He said such misuse hinders emergency services and poses risks to the public.
“Fire engines use sirens to respond to emergencies. Many drivers ignore these sirens as if they are ordinary sounds. Obstructing an emergency vehicle will have consequences. I urge the public to respect sirens used by ambulances, fire engines, and official convoys,” he said.
Minister Katambi further warned against unauthorized vehicle number plates, noting that some private vehicles display plates not compliant with legal requirements. “Our country operates under rules and regulations. Emergency services are sometimes delayed not because of the forces themselves but due to people building on roads or evading inspections. The cost of ignoring these rules is measured in lost lives and property,” he added.
Deputy Minister of Interior, Ayoub Mohamed Mahmoud, praised the Fire and Rescue Force for protecting lives and property across the country and promised continued government support for their operations.
Meanwhile, Fire and Rescue Force Commissioner General John Masunga reported that 3,091 fire incidents were recorded in 2025, claiming 114 lives and leaving 235 people injured.
Minister Katambi said the government is in the final stages of implementing measures to remove unauthorized sirens and ensure all vehicles comply with proper regulations. “We cannot allow everyone to install sirens at will. We are taking steps to remove them to restore order and safety,” he said.
The campaign forms part of the government’s broader commitment to enforce road safety, support emergency services, and protect lives and property across Tanzania.