The government has announced decisive measures to protect students from harassment while using urban bus services, popularly known as daladala, stressing that students’ right to safe and timely education cannot be compromised for commercial gains.
The announcement came on February 4, 2026, in Dodoma, when Transport Minister Prof. Makame Mbarawa addressed the media following a viral video of Form One student Mariana Eric Mirindima of Jangwani Secondary School.
The student had submitted a letter highlighting the challenges students face, including conductors refusing to transport them unless they pay full fares, leaving students stranded for long periods and often causing them to miss lessons.
Prof. Mbarawa praised the student and her parent for speaking out, saying the government has listened and will take action.
“By reporting this, the student has fulfilled her duty to provide feedback that must be addressed. Students’ voices have been heard,” he said.
The minister said the government allows private operators to provide public transport services but will not hesitate to act against those violating laws, regulations, or service ethics.
To address the problem, the government plans to introduce special fast buses for students during morning and evening peak hours and designate compartments for students on city trains, particularly in Dar es Salaam.
The student fare of TZS 200 on daladala and express buses will continue, with drivers and conductors being registered and verified to strengthen accountability and discipline in the sector.
Prof. Mbarawa instructed the Land Transport Regulatory Authority (LATRA) to fast-track registration of transport personnel, monitor student fares, provide awareness to service providers and passengers, and work closely with the police to conduct regular inspections at daladala stations.
He urged citizens to help protect students by reporting any abuse through LATRA’s toll-free numbers or WhatsApp.
The minister also warned daladala owners to ensure their staff comply with laws and regulations, emphasizing that legal action will be taken against anyone found harassing students.
“These measures aim to create a public transport system that guarantees safety, discipline, and respect for students, ensuring they can access education in a secure environment,” Prof. Mbarawa said.
