The Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation has launched a series of stakeholder consultations in the Lake Zone as it assesses the impact of rising fuel prices on water transport operations and possible fare adjustments.
The meetings, held across Mwanza, Kigoma and Kagera regions, have brought together transport operators, passengers, business players and government officials, all voicing concern over the increasing cost of fuel and its ripple effects on the sector.
Officials speaking on behalf of TASAC’s Director General said the consultations are aimed at collecting views before any decision is made on reviewing marine transport fares, stressing that the process will be participatory and guided by law.
They cited Section 29 of the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Act, Cap 415, which requires the regulator to engage stakeholders in key decisions affecting the industry.
In Kagera Region, Acting Regional Administrative Secretary Isaya Tendega described the consultations as timely, noting that recent fuel price adjustments have already begun to push up operating costs for boat operators, with likely consequences for ordinary citizens who depend on water transport.
Stakeholders who attended the sessions called for careful consideration to ensure any fare changes do not disproportionately affect low-income earners, particularly communities around Lake Victoria who rely on boats for trade, transport and access to essential services.
Several participants urged the government and operators to explore cost-cutting measures, including improving vessel efficiency and investing in alternative energy sources, rather than passing the full burden to passengers through fare hikes.
TASAC said it will continue receiving stakeholder submissions until April 26, 2026, after which it will conclude a transparent review process that takes into account public input and prevailing market realities before announcing its decision.
