Swedish Embassy, Scania launch Dar-Dodoma ‘clean transport tour’

DAR ES SALAAM: The Embassy of Sweden in Tanzania, in close collaboration with Swedish transport company Scania, launched of a ground-breaking Clean Transport Tour from Dar es Salaam to the capital of Dodoma, being part of its strategy of promoting clean transport in the country.

Scheduled for the 2nd to 5th of October, the initiative seeks to catalyse the transition to sustainable and eco-friendly transport systems in Tanzania while also celebrating 60 years of impactful development cooperation between Sweden and Tanzania.
Speaking on Sweden’s long-term partnership with Tanzania, Ambassador of Sweden to Tanzania H.E. Charlotta-Ozaki Macias says:

“Tanzania and Sweden have in close partnership worked in almost all sectors of society during the last 60 years. There are many results to be proud of, some lessons learned and a bright future to look forward to. These partnerships provide a solid platform for our relations in the coming years.”

Sweden has long been a global advocate for environmentally friendly and sustainable transport solutions, and this tour aims to draw attention to the imperative need for a cleaner, greener transportation future in Tanzania.
At the heart of this endeavour is a gas-powered truck, utilising compressed natural gas (CNG), as an attractive and locally available fuel alternative.

Scania Managing Director Mr Ali Dar, highlighted that the Scania gas truck conforms to the cleanest emission norm available, Euro 6 engine, operating on optionally Compressed Natural Gas or Biogas:

“This Scania gas truck was officially launched in Tanzania 2021; It is a well-proven technology that reduces exhaust emissions and noise levels. Globally one out of eight deaths are caused by poor air quality, where emissions from transport are a large contributor. In Dar es Salaam, we have a growing population that has doubled in 15 years, and more of us need means of transport. By running the transport on CNG we can use the cleanest drivelines with the lowest emissions, creating cleaner air.”

CNG is a local fuel, creating local jobs. Today, one of Tanzania’s largest imports is diesel. By running on local fuel, Tanzania can reduce foreign exchange; create local jobs and revenue streams. What is stopping other countries is often the investment in infrastructure; however, in Tanzania most of the investment is already made, with the gas pipe into Dar es Salaam and the mother station in Ubungo in place. Let us make use of the investment.