PRIME Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has expressed concern that drivers of government vehicles are increasingly contributing to traffic violations, despite being expected to lead by example.

In remarks while opening the 1st Sustainable Land Transport Week 2025, he questioned legal disparities between public-sector drivers and private motorists, insisting that the law must apply equally to all road users.

“We do not need separate laws for public servants and ordinary road users. There is no justification for regulations that create two systems of accountability,” he stated, lashing at reckless drivers for openly defying traffic regulations.

Worsening road indiscipline is causing fatal crashes and undermining Tanzania’s push for a safer transport system, he said, underlining that motorists and pedestrians must embrace behaviour change. 

The road infrastructure is designed for all citizens and must be used responsibly, he said, pointing at zebra crossings, traffic lights and clear traffic signs, lamenting that some drivers simply ignore them.

“Parliament enacted these laws following government recommendations, and they must be followed by everyone,” he stressed, urging drivers to comply and avoid unnecessary clashes with law enforcers.

Police officers should not have to plead with motorists to observe traffic regulations as road safety depends on cooperation among key stakeholders like the Home Affairs ministry, the Police Force, transporters and communities.in highways and ordinary road networks, he said.

Transport Minister Prof. Makame Mbarawa asked transport operators to invest in modern, environmentally friendly technologies that complement the government’s investment in the standard gauge railway (SGR).

Recent amendments to the Railways Act pave the way for open access, enabling local and foreign business operators to play a more active role in the sector, he said, inviting investors within and outside the country to take up transport industry opportunities.

There are those that particularly support environmental sustainability, he said, pointing at the SGR as a model project for the East African region and the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC).

Raymond Shoniwa, the Southern Africa Railways Association executive director, praised Tanzania for its ‘remarkable’ infrastructure transformation, noting that developments since his last visit three years ago have been truly amazing. New buildings and modern transport facilities are now in place, he said.

Zimbabwe acknowledges Tanzania’s historic support during its liberation struggle and the bond between the two nations remains deep and enduring, he added.