The Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) has met stakeholders in Kagera Region to collect views on how rising fuel prices are affecting water transport fares, in a consultative process aimed at ensuring a fair balance between protecting passengers and sustaining transport service providers.
The meeting, held on April 16, 2026 at the ELCT Hall in Bukoba Municipality, brought together boat operators, traders and passengers to discuss the impact of the new indicative fuel prices introduced on April 1.
Participants shared experiences on how the changes have increased operational costs in the water transport sector.
Speaking on behalf of the Kagera Regional Administrative Secretary, Assistant Administrative Secretary for Economy and Production, Issaya Tendega, said the government will carefully review all views collected from stakeholders and ensure they are submitted to the relevant authorities for consideration.
He said feedback on the outcome of the process will be communicated to stakeholders before April 26, 2026, stressing that the aim is to support informed and balanced decisions that reflect both public interest and the sustainability of transport services.
“TASAC is committed to ensuring that any adjustments to fares take into account the realities faced by both operators and passengers,” said TASAC Lake Zone Public Relations Officer, Said Mkabakuli.
He added that the engagement is intended to ensure fairness in the transport system, where citizens are not overburdened by costs while operators continue to provide safe and reliable services.
He noted that TASAC continues to collect views from stakeholders through both oral submissions and written responses to ensure inclusivity.
Stakeholders who attended the meeting welcomed the consultation, saying it gives the public a platform to express their concerns and understand the reasons behind possible fare adjustments. Some participants said the approach helps reduce misunderstandings whenever transport costs change.
However, some residents expressed concern over the rising cost of transport, urging authorities to consider solutions that will cushion passengers, especially those who rely heavily on water transport for daily movement and business activities.
The consultation is part of TASAC’s broader efforts to respond to economic changes while maintaining affordable, safe and efficient water transport services across the Lake Zone.
