Dar to become city that never sleeps

DAR ES SALAAM: DAR ES SALAAM is gearing up to become a 24-hour business hub, with plans underway to implement roundthe-clock business operations in the city.

Speaking during the Taxpayers’ Appreciation Awards event in Dar es Salaam on Friday, the Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner, Albert Chalamila, outlined the initiative as part of efforts to formalise the informal sector and provide more opportunities for unemployed youth.

The initiative aligns with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision of establishing 24-hour business operations in Kariakoo Market once it is completed. The President has consistently called for the extension of business hours to boost economic activity and improve service delivery in urban areas.

Mr Chalamila said that the preparations involve collaboration among various government institutions to ensure that the necessary infrastructure and security measures are in place.

“We have already ordered CCTV cameras, which will be installed in specific areas such as Kariakoo, to enhance security and create a safe environment for businesses to operate 24 hours,” he said.

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The move is expected to transform Dar es Salaam into a vibrant, around-the-clock commercial centre, expanding the scope of services availability to residents and visitors alike. To achieve this, Chalamila extended his gratitude to security officials for their efforts to ensure that previously unsafe areas will now be secure for business operations.

“Shops and other key sectors will be part of this transformation. We believe that there will be sufficient security and peace to allow everyone to conduct business around the clock,” he said.

The introduction of 24- hour business operations is also expected to address longstanding challenges in Dar es Salaam, including limited access to essential goods and services during nighttime hours. This development could position the city as a regional economic hub, attracting more investors and fostering growth across multiple sectors.

The initiative reflects the government’s broader push to modernise urban centres and strengthen the economy, a vision that has been reiterated by President Samia and other national leaders. With security measures and infrastructure improvements in progress, Dar es Salaam is set to embark on a new chapter as a city that never sleeps. Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) Commissioner General Yusuph Mwenda said the Taxpayers’ Appreciation Day is an opportunity to honour taxpayers’ contributions to the nation.