The President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (POM–RALG) has clarified remarks made by Minister of State Prof. Riziki Shemdoe regarding a proposal for early morning SGR train services between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma.
The clarification, issued on June 30, 2026 in Dodoma, said the remarks have been misinterpreted on social media.
POM–RALG stated that Prof. Shemdoe made the comments while representing the Chief Secretary during the closing ceremony of the 2026 Public Service Week.
The ministry said the proposal was intended to improve transport efficiency for all passengers who travel early between the two cities.
It added that the service would support people travelling for meetings, business, medical services, education, and other social needs.
According to the statement, the example of public servants whose spouses work in different cities was used only to explain real-life transport challenges.
Roida Andusamile, Head of the Government Communication Unit at POM–RALG, said the remarks were taken out of context.
“Tanzania is experiencing increasing demand for early morning travel between major cities, especially Dar es Salaam and Dodoma,” she said.
She added that early train services are common in modern railway systems worldwide and are designed to improve efficiency and convenience.
POM–RALG said Tanzania’s ongoing investment in the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) reflects the government’s commitment to improving transport infrastructure.
The statement reaffirmed that the proposal should be understood as part of wider efforts to enhance service delivery and support economic activities.
The ministry urged the public to interpret the remarks in their proper context and avoid misleading interpretations online.
