Tanzania has embarked on a significant transport transformation with its new electric railway, linking Dar es Salaam to Dodoma. This ambitious project promises economic benefits and improved travel efficiency while impacting traditional bus services.
Tanzania's Railway Revolution: A New Era of Transport Connectivity
Tanzania's Railway Revolution: A New Era of Transport Connectivity
The newly launched electric railway in Tanzania symbolizes progress and transportation innovation for East Africa, connecting key cities and enhancing the travel experience for countless citizens.
The new railway station in Dar es Salaam, designed to resemble the country's cherished tanzanite gemstone, heralds a remarkable change in Tanzania's transportation landscape. As the nation's first electric train service, it promises faster travel between the commercial hub of Dar es Salaam and the capital, Dodoma, reducing the journey time to under four hours—half of what it typically takes by road.
Opening in August 2023, this section is part of a larger Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project, which aims to stretch 2,560 km and connect to other East African nations like Burundi, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. President Samia Suluhu has hailed the railway as a “pathway to our future,” targeting regional economic integration.
The construction of the railway corridor, particularly the 460 km segment from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma, has faced hurdles, including delays attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic and rising construction costs. Originally slated for a 2019 completion, its delays raised concerns about the overall $10 billion budget that includes backing from the Tanzanian government, Chinese banks, and various international lenders.
Inside the modern train, passengers enjoy cleanliness and comfort that significantly improve upon older train services, now replaced by the SGR. Gloria Sebastian, a passenger on her way to visit family in Dodoma, expressed satisfaction about the convenience of the new route. Currently, the service operates eight daily trains, drawing around 7,000 passengers, with demand prompting plans for increased frequency.
Economy class tickets are competitively priced at approximately $15, while business class fares are around $26. The intense interest has led to early booking requirements, often resulting in full trains days in advance.
Despite the success of the railway, it casts a shadow on the longstanding bus services, with the Chairman of the Dodoma Bus Terminal Agents’ Union reporting that traditional bus companies have seen a drop in patronage, with hundreds fewer passengers daily. This change forces operators to adapt to the new reality, acknowledging the railway’s overall benefit to the majority while lamenting their losses.
As Tanzania continues to develop its transportation infrastructure, the SGR is positioned to offer not only swift travel but also the potential for economic growth through passenger and freight services. The long-term vision for the railway embraces a commitment to renewable energy and efficient service, establishing Tanzania as a leader in regional connectivity and innovation.
