LATRA to enforce bus attendants registration starting June 2

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Land Transport Regulatory Authority (LATRA) has launched inspections to enforce compliance with regulations governing bus attendants on all long-distance commercial buses.

Starting June 2nd, this year, penalties will be imposed on service providers employing unregistered attendants.

In a statement, Head of the Public Relations and Communications Unit at LATRA, Mr Salum Pazzy said that all bus attendants must submit their registration applications via the LATRA website or visit the nearest LATRA office with a copy of their Training Certificate and National Identification Number (NIDA).

“Training for attendants is shortterm and is offered by the National Institute of Transport (NIT), College of Business Education (CBE) and Arusha Technical College, ensuring accessibility for those who need it,” said Mr Pazzy.

According to Section 5(1)(e) of the Land Transport Regulatory Authority Act, Cap 413, LATRA is responsible for registering bus attendants and certifying drivers of motor vehicles providing commercial transport services.

Regulation 22(g) of the Public Passenger Vehicles (Licensing) Regulations, Government Notice No 76 of 2020, mandates service providers to ensure their attendants are registered with LATRA.

Regulation 20(1)(d) of the Commercial Vehicle Driver Certification and Attendant Registration Regulations, Government Notice No 81 of 2020, requires commercial vehicle attendants to possess a Registration Card issued by LATRA.

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Mr Pazzy said that in line with these responsibilities, LATRA launched training programmes for bus attendants in July 2023.

“On August 14th, last year, the authority announced that December 31st, 2024, would be the deadline for service providers to cease employing unregistered attendants, while continuing public education and supporting compliance,” he added.

He further emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating, “From January 1, LATRA will not allow upcountry bus operators to use unregistered bus crews.”

He encouraged bus operators to ensure their staff receive the necessary training before the deadline.

Pazzy said that LATRA continues to register individuals who have completed the training and is coordinating with institutions like NIT and CBE to ensure training reaches all service providers nationwide.

The training curriculum includes understanding LATRA regulations, customer service, first aid and safety protocols.

This initiative aims to professionalise the sector, enhance passenger safety and improve service quality.

LATRA’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to improve land transport services in Tanzania, including the expansion of public transport networks and the implementation of electronic ticketing systems.