How private shared mobility compliments public transport

TANZANIA: Tanzania, like many other developing nations, faces a growing demand for efficient, reliable and affordable transportation.

With an expanding population and increasing urbanisation, cities such as Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Arusha and Mwanza are experiencing unprecedented pressure on their public transport systems.

While the government has made strides in improving bus and rail networks, significant gaps remain, particularly in terms of access, convenience and coverage.

This is where private shared mobility services come into play, stepping in to complement and fill the gaps that public transportation cannot address.

Among the most significant players in this space is Bolt, which has transformed the mobility landscape across Tanzania’s major cities.

The bus rapid transit (BRT) system in Dar es Salaam is a commendable effort in improving mass transit, offering an affordable and relatively efficient service.

However, even with its success, it covers only a fraction of the city’s geography, leaving vast urban and suburban areas underserved. Long queues, overcrowded buses and frequent delays remain commonplace.

Additionally, public buses and trains operate on fixed schedules and routes, which may not always align with the real-time needs of passengers.

The General Manager Rides at Bolt Mr Dimmy Kanyankole said recently that, “One of the key advantages of private shared mobility is the adaptability of the service. Unlike buses that follow rigid routes, ride-hailing platforms like Bolt, allow passengers to move between any two points, offering seamless transportation.

This has not only made commuting more efficient for individuals but has also eased the pressure whilst also complementing the limited public transport infrastructure.”

For many Tanzanians, particularly those living on the outskirts of cities or in areas where public transport infrastructure is limited, the flexibility and convenience of ride-hailing services offer a necessary alternative.

The emergence of ride-hailing services has been transformative. Bolt in Tanzania has enabled people to access quick, affordable and reliable transportation at the tap of a button. Whether it’s during the evening hours when public transport options are scarce, or in remote areas where public buses don’t reach, private shared mobility has become a vital lifeline.

For the thousands of Tanzanians who rely on ride-hailing to get to work, school, or appointments, the flexibility provided by these services is more than just convenience, it is often the difference between being mobile or stranded.

The benefits of private shared mobility go beyond just convenience. The rise of ride-hailing has also had significant economic impacts in Tanzania.

Bolt has created employment opportunities for thousands of drivers, offering them an additional source of income and a chance to be part of a structured gig economy.

In cities where formal employment opportunities are limited, ride-hailing presents an accessible, entrepreneurial path for many.

“Recently, Bolt expanded to Morogoro in response to the launch of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) operations from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro, which has significantly enhanced connectivity and accessibility between the two major cities, fostering economic growth and mobility,” added Dimmy Kanyankole.

Additionally, the platform’s business model helps reduce congestion and pollution by promoting ride-sharing. This sustainability effort aligns with broader goals of reducing the carbon footprint in urban areas, where emissions from personal vehicles remain a growing concern.

Tanzania’s transport challenges are too complex for one-size-fits-all solutions. Public transport alone cannot shoulder the entire burden and private shared mobility services like Bolt’s are essential to filling the gaps and ensuring mobility for all.

The ongoing evolution of the ride-hailing industry, supported by both private and government partnerships, driver empowerment initiatives and technological innovation, have proven that the future of mobility in Tanzania is one that must be collaborative.

By building on this synergy, we can envision a future where every Tanzanian, regardless of location, has access to reliable and affordable transportation options.

The leading ride-hailing company’s continued growth and its partnerships are showing the way forward for what a truly connected, mobile Tanzania can look like.

One of the stakeholders in the transport sector, Mr Juma Kinyondi said private shared mobility is emerging as a vital complement to public transport in Tanzania, addressing several key gaps that traditional systems often leave unfilled.

One of the primary challenges facing public transport in many Tanzanian cities is coverage; many underserved areas lack reliable bus services or access to routes that can efficiently connect residents to employment, education and essential services.

Private shared mobility options, such as ride-hailing services and community shuttles, can provide flexible and responsive solutions.

By leveraging technology, these services can quickly adapt to demand patterns, reaching areas where public transport fails to operate effectively.

Additionally, private shared mobility enhances the overall travel experience by offering greater convenience and accessibility.

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For individuals with mobility challenges or those living in remote areas, the on-demand nature of private shared services ensures they can secure transportation without having to navigate complicated public transport schedules or routes.

This immediacy not only improves individual mobility but also encourages broader participation in economic activities, thereby promoting social equity.

By catering to diverse transportation needs, these services fill critical gaps, particularly for vulnerable populations who might otherwise be left isolated.

Furthermore, the integration of private shared mobility with existing public transport systems can foster a more holistic approach to urban mobility in Tanzania.

By creating seamless connections between private rides and public transit hubs, cities can promote a multi-modal transportation landscape that maximises efficiency.

For example, individuals might use a ride-hailing service to reach a bus or train station, enhancing the utility of both modes of transport. This synergy not only reduces congestion but also encourages the use of public transit, making it a more viable option for daily commutes.

As Tanzania continues to develop its urban infrastructure, prioritising this integration will be crucial in building a sustainable and inclusive transportation ecosystem.