Prof Mbarawa orders a speedy certification of Daladala drivers

DODOMA: THE Minister for Transport, Prof Makame Mbarawa, has directed the Land Transport Regulatory Authority (LATRA) to speed up the registration and certification of daladala drivers and conductors, strengthen controls on student fares as well as working with the police to carry out regular inspections at urban bus stations to curb harassment of students.

He issued the directives today, February 4, 2026, in Dodoma and emphasized that the government will not tolerate conduct by some drivers and conductors who harass students under the pretext of unpaid fares, stressing that students’ right to safe access to education cannot be compromised for commercial interests.

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The minister’s directives came following a video circulated on social media showing Form One student Mariana Eric Mirindima from Jangwani Secondary School submitting a letter detailing the challenges students face when using daladala transport.

In her letter, the student explained that some conductors refuse to transport students, leaving them stranded at bus stops for long periods, causing late arrivals to school or even missing classes, which puts their safety at risk and affects their academic progress.

Additionally, Prof Mbarawa praised the student and her parents for their courage in reporting the issue, assuring that the government has listened and will take appropriate action.