Tanzania launches nationwide road safety campaign to reduce road carnage
DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA has launched a nationwide road safety campaign aimed at reducing accidents among motorcycle riders, commonly known as boda boda.
Dubbed “Usalama Daima, Azam TV Milele”, the campaign seeks to promote safe road use while raising public awareness on road safety practices.
Speaking during the launch at Kimara Stopover in Ubungo, Dar es Salaam, the company’s Chief Operating Officer, Yahya Mohamed, says the campaign will run until September and will be rolled out to various regions across the country.
He says the initiative focuses on providing road safety education to boda boda riders, distributing protective gear including reflective jackets, and bringing Azam TV services closer to the public.
“We want to build a society that understands road safety while strengthening our presence in communities,” he says.
Mohamed says the campaign also includes training sessions, vehicle inspections and community outreach activities such as blood donation, aimed at equipping riders with skills and knowledge to help reduce avoidable accidents.
Dar es Salaam Special Zone Traffic Desk Head and Police Inspector, Dina Mosi, says road users must strictly adhere to traffic laws to avoid accidents.
“Road use is part of life, but it is also risky. A small mistake can cost a life, so caution is essential at all times,” she says.
She says boda boda riders should avoid reckless behaviour, including the use of excessively bright lights and acts of retaliation on the road.
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Meanwhile, Motorcycle Riders and Owners Association chairperson, Michael Masawe, says riders have a duty to comply with safety requirements, including wearing helmets and possessing valid driving licences.
“Our goal is to earn a living, but we must prioritise our safety and that of our passengers,” he says.
Saranga Ward Councillor, John Sanga says the initiative complements government efforts to improve road safety.
He says the training should help riders become more responsible and serve as ambassadors of road safety, while also noting the need to address challenges related to access to driving licences.
“It is important to support riders to obtain licences more easily, including through flexible payment systems,” he says.
The campaign is expected to raise awareness and contribute to the reduction of road accidents across the country.
