The third phase of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, popularly known as Mwendokasi, along Nyerere Road toward Gongolamboto and its surrounding areas, has reached an impressive 99% completion in the construction of bus stations and concrete road infrastructure. This milestone marks a significant step forward in transforming urban mobility in Dar es Salaam, offering hope for millions of daily commuters who have long struggled with unreliable public transport.
Speaking on the progress of the project, Acting Director of Transport Infrastructure Development at the Dar Rapid Transit Agency (DART), Ms. Delphina Pweleza, confirmed that the construction works under Lot 2—covering road infrastructure and bus stations—are nearly complete. According to her, the works have reached 99%, with final handover expected by the end of April 2026.
“For now, the construction of road infrastructure and stations has reached ninety-nine percent (99%), and we expect the official handover to take place by the end of April 2026,” Ms. Pweleza stated.
She further explained that while significant progress has been made in the core infrastructure, other components of the project—such as the construction of depots, the main terminal at the airport, and the Banana feeder station—are still in early stages of development. These facilities are crucial for ensuring the operational efficiency and sustainability of the BRT system once it becomes fully functional.
A Long-Awaited Solution for Commuters
Residents of Gongolamboto and surrounding areas have expressed optimism and relief as the project nears completion. For years, commuters in areas such as Pugu, Ukonga, and Kisarawe have faced daily challenges in accessing reliable, safe, and affordable public transport.
Many residents described the upcoming BRT services as a “game changer” that will significantly reduce travel time, congestion, and transportation costs.
One resident from Pugu Kajiungeni, Hamad Shelukindo, praised the government for its commitment to infrastructure development under the leadership of Samia Suluhu Hassan.
“We thank the government for continuing to invest in strategic infrastructure projects like this. The main goal is to eliminate transportation challenges for residents of Gongolamboto,
Pugu, Kisarawe, and nearby areas,” he said.
Another resident, Anselim Obeid from Ukonga, highlighted the project’s potential to benefit vulnerable groups, especially women and students, who often bear the brunt of unreliable transport systems.
“This project will greatly help women and students who have been struggling with unpredictable public transport services,” he noted.
Strategic Route and Connectivity
Phase III of the BRT project is a critical expansion designed to improve connectivity across key parts of the city. The route includes a major corridor that begins at the Kariakoo Gerezani terminal, one of the busiest commercial hubs in the city, and extends through Lindi
Street, Shaurimoyo, and Uhuru Street.
From there, it continues to Buguruni, where it connects with Nelson Mandela Road, eventually linking to Nyerere Road at the TAZARA intersection. The total length of the corridor spans approximately 23.6 kilometers.
This expansion seamlessly integrates with earlier phases of the BRT system, particularly Phase I and Phase II, which connect major terminals such as Kariakoo-Gerezani and Kivukoni. The integration ensures a unified and efficient public transport network capable of handling the city’s growing population and economic activities.
Comprehensive Infrastructure Development
The third phase of the BRT project is not limited to bus lanes alone. It represents a comprehensive approach to urban mobility and infrastructure development.
The project includes:
Dedicated BRT lanes exclusively for buses to ensure fast and uninterrupted travel
Separate lanes for private vehicles to reduce congestion
Pedestrian walkways to enhance safety and accessibility
Bicycle lanes to promote eco-friendly transportation
Major and minor bus stations designed to accommodate high passenger volumes
Depots and maintenance facilities to support operational efficiency
Feeder stations to connect surrounding neighborhoods to the main BRT routes
This multi-faceted approach reflects a modern vision of urban transport that prioritizes efficiency, safety, and inclusivity.
Economic and Social Impact
The near-completion of Phase III is expected to have far-reaching economic and social benefits. Improved transportation infrastructure often serves as a catalyst for economic growth by facilitating the movement of people, goods, and services.
For Dar es Salaam, a rapidly growing commercial hub, the BRT expansion is likely to:
Reduce travel time significantly for daily commuters
Lower transportation costs for individuals and businesses
Increase productivity by minimizing delays
Improve access to education and employment opportunities
Enhance overall quality of life for residents
Moreover, the project is expected to reduce environmental pollution by encouraging the use of mass transit over private vehicles.
Support from International Partners
The construction of Phase III has been made possible through financial support from the World Bank under the Dar es Salaam Urban Transport Improvement Project (DUTIP).
The involvement of international partners underscores the importance of the project not only at a national level but also within the broader context of sustainable urban development.
The World Bank’s support has enabled the implementation of high-quality infrastructure standards and best practices in project execution, ensuring long-term benefits for the city.
Looking Ahead
As the project approaches full completion, attention is gradually shifting toward operational readiness. This includes final inspections, testing of infrastructure, and preparation of buses and personnel.
Once operational, the BRT Phase III is expected to significantly ease the burden on existing transport systems and provide a reliable alternative for commuters traveling along the Nyerere corridor.
The government’s continued investment in such projects reflects a broader commitment to modernizing Tanzania’s urban infrastructure and addressing the challenges of rapid urbanization.
Conclusion
The completion of 99% of the BRT Phase III infrastructure marks a major milestone in the transformation of public transportation in Dar es Salaam. With its extensive network, modern facilities, and strong community support, the project stands as a testament to the government’s dedication to improving the lives of its citizens.
As residents eagerly await its official launch, there is growing confidence that the Mwendokasi system will deliver on its promise of fast, reliable, and efficient public transport—ushering in a new era of mobility for Tanzania’s largest city.
Abdul Bandola Tanzania
