By The Respondents Reporter
Stakeholders in the marine transport sector have raised concerns over the effects of rising fuel prices on water transport services, warning that any sharp increase in fares could negatively affect wananchi who rely on the services for daily economic activities.
The concerns were raised during stakeholder consultation meetings organized by the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) in the regions of Mwanza, Kigoma and Kagera on April 16, 2026.
The meetings aimed at collecting views from transport operators, passengers and other stakeholders before any decision is made on possible adjustments to marine transport fares following recent fuel price increases.
Officials speaking on behalf of TASAC Director General said the consultations were part of the authority’s commitment to ensuring transparency and public participation in decisions affecting the sector.
They explained that the meetings were conducted in accordance with Section 29 of the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Act, Chapter 415, which requires TASAC to involve stakeholders in important regulatory processes.
Speaking during the Kagera meeting, Acting Regional Administrative Secretary (RAS) Isaya Tendega praised TASAC for engaging stakeholders at a time when rising fuel prices continue to increase operational costs for marine transport operators.
He noted that the situation could have a direct impact on citizens, especially communities that depend heavily on water transport for business, trade and movement between islands and lakeside areas.
Several stakeholders urged authorities to carefully balance operational expenses and passengers’ ability to pay fares, saying ordinary citizens should not carry the full burden of rising fuel costs.
Others proposed alternative solutions, including the use of alternative energy and improving vessel efficiency to reduce operating costs instead of relying mainly on fare increases.
TASAC said it will continue collecting stakeholders’ views until April 26, 2026 before concluding the review process.
The authority emphasized that any decision reached will consider public opinions, market realities and the need to maintain sustainable marine transport services across the country.
