AU delegates visit Dar es Salaam to learn about BRT system
A delegation of 20 representatives from the African Union (AU) visited the Dar Rapid Transit (DART) Agency on December 20, 2024 to learn about the city’s pioneering Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. The visit featured a comprehensive presentation on the BRT concept and its implementation by the DART Agency, which is responsible for managing the BRT system in Dar es Salaam.
Engineer Mohamed Kuganda, the Director of Transport Development (DTD) at DART, delivered the keynote presentation to the delegates. He began by explaining the rationale for establishing the BRT project in the 2000s, emphasizing its role in addressing the city’s growing congestion challenges. “The BRT was designed as a sustainable solution to urban mobility, catering to the needs of a rapidly growing population and reducing traffic congestion in Dar es Salaam,” said Eng. Kuganda.
The BRT project, Eng. Kuganda explained, is being implemented in six phases under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. He outlined the system’s defining characteristics, including the use of segregated lanes to prioritize BRT buses and advanced technology for fare collection and operations. “Our Automated Fare Collection System (AFCS) and Intelligent Transport System (ITS) ensure efficiency and transparency in fare management,” he noted.
Highlighting the environmental benefits of the BRT, Eng. Kuganda pointed out the system’s role in reducing emissions. “With Dar es Salaam now home to approximately 7.4 million people, the BRT is crucial in cutting down greenhouse gas emissions while improving city mobility,” he said.
The Director also discussed efforts to boost revenue through Transit Oriented Development (TOD). “We are exploring ways to use TOD to generate additional revenue and subsidize fares, ensuring affordability for our passengers while maintaining the financial viability of the system,” Eng. Kuganda explained.
During the visit, DART Acting Chief Executive Officer Pantaleo Jerome provided insights into land ownership and compensation mechanisms for project-affected individuals in Tanzania. “Our approach ensures that affected residents are fairly compensated in line with Tanzanian laws and international best practices,” Jerome stated.
In addition, CPA Deudility Casimir, DART’s Director of Finance, elaborated on the agency’s funding strategies. “We are in the process of securing support from the Green Climate Fund for Phase 6 of the project, which will further enhance our capacity to deliver sustainable urban transport,” he said. Casimir also mentioned incentives offered to attract private sector investment in the project.
Dr. Zanifa Omary, Director of Information and Communication Technology at DART, spoke about the importance of technology transfer in advancing the BRT system. “Through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, we are constantly improving operational efficiency and service delivery for our passengers,” she remarked.
The visit also included discussions about the BRT’s user-friendly infrastructure, such as park-and-ride facilities that encourage commuters to opt for public transport. “The segregated lanes and designated parking areas make BRT an attractive choice for daily commuters,” said Eng. Kuganda.
AU delegates praised the BRT system for its innovative approach to urban transport. “This is a remarkable example of how African cities can adopt sustainable mobility solutions,” said one delegate.
Eng. Kuganda concluded his presentation by emphasizing the project’s alignment with Tanzania’s broader development goals. “The BRT is not just a transport project; it’s a driver of economic growth and environmental sustainability,” he said.
The visit underscored the significance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing among African nations. “We are honored to host our AU counterparts and share our experiences in building a world-class urban transport system,” remarked Pantaleo Jerome.
The AU delegation’s visit to Dar es Salaam reflects a growing recognition of the BRT’s role in transforming urban mobility across Africa. DART officials expressed their commitment to continuous improvement and regional cooperation to address the continent’s transportation challenges.