LATRA leads transport innovation drive
DAR ES SALAAM: BUS manufacturers, including major vehicle assembly firms, have confirmed plans to showcase new transport-innovation vehicles designed to transform the country’s public transport sector.
The Director General of the Land Transport Regulatory Authority (LATRA), Mr Habibu Suluo, said the first-ever sustainable transport week will also feature leading international industry players such as Yutong and HOWO.
The companies are expected to present new technologies and solutions tailored for the African market, ranging from energy-efficient vehicles to smart fleet-management systems.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday on the upcoming 2025 awards for outstanding service providers scheduled to be followed by sustainable land transport week from November 24–29, this year, Mr Suluo said more than 800 participants from within the country and abroad will engage in discussions on sustainability, innovation, safety, customer care, and operational efficiency in the land transport industry.
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Mr Suluo insisted that the event will provide an opportunity for commuter buses, truck and bus owners to interact directly with manufacturers and assembly companies, enabling them to explore options for purchasing electric vehicles.
On the awards, Mr Suluo noted that under Section 6 of the LATRA Act, Cap. 413, the authority is mandated to foster effective competition among regulated service providers. This is achieved through monitoring, capacity building, and recognizing best practices.
“LATRA has been presenting awards to outstanding and responsible operators as a way of improving the competitive environment and strengthening the transport ecosystem,” he said.
Commenting on current market trends, Mr Suluo noted that increased competition has already contributed to improved service quality.
“If you look at the level of service now, operators have invested in luxury buses and enhanced customer experience. Despite the challenges, we have not experienced strikes or major disruptions, because operators continue to seek solutions,” he said.
The awards will cover a wide range of categories, including intercity passenger bus operators, cargo transporters, ride-hailing services, vehicle-tracking technology providers, as well as journalists and media houses that support road safety awareness and quality service delivery.
Mr Suluo further stated that the authority has already begun the certification process for truck drivers and passenger service operators, a move aimed at promoting professionalism and accountability in the sector.
“We are also assessing sustained service reliability, technological innovation, and year-round efficiency. These awards are not merely ceremonial; they motivate companies to improve,” he said.
He added: “As a country, we cannot move forward in isolation. We collaborate closely with stakeholders to support national economic growth, especially in key sectors like agriculture where transport plays a crucial role.”
