State to consider stakeholders views on fatigue rules

DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has assured transport stakeholders that it will take into account their views on the draft 2026 Land Transport Regulatory Authority (LATRA) regulations on the management of driver fatigue.

During consultations, stakeholders raised concerns over the proposed maximum driving time for passenger vehicle drivers. The draft regulations recommend that a driver should not drive for more than nine hours within a 24-hour period.

However, stakeholders suggested that the rules should instead consider the distance travelled, citing challenges such as traffic congestion, particularly for vehicles operating between Dar es Salaam and upcountry regions. Another concern highlighted was the offences and penalties for non-compliance.

According to the draft regulations, a vehicle owner who violates the rules would face a fine ranging from 200,000/- to 500,000/-, while drivers will be fined between 100,000/- and 200,000/-.

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Speaking at the closing of a stakeholders’ consultative meeting on the draft regulations held in Dar es Salaam on Thursday, LATRA Assistant Director for Road Transport Services in the Ministry of Transport, Mr Andrew Magombana, said the process is still ongoing and open to further input.

“This process has not yet reached the final stage. The Authority’s objective is to obtain constructive views that will help in making the right decisions in the national interest,” he said.

Mr Magombana urged stakeholders to continue submitting their recommendations in writing within 14 days from Thursday, to ensure all parties have an opportunity to participate fully.

Earlier, LATRA Director, CPA Habibu Suluo, explained that driver fatigue remains a major challenge with serious implications for passenger safety, investors’ interests and the national economy. He noted that road accidents continue to be reported, many linked to driver fatigue, with some causing significant losses to investors and the country.

Mr Suluo stressed that the regulations are not intended to oppress investors but to protect their interests, safeguard drivers’ health and ensure passenger safety. “When an accident occurs, you lose passengers’ lives, property, and the vehicle itself is damaged,” he said.