Mbeya transport strike ends as Prof. Shemdoe mediates driver dispute

Prof. Riziki Shemdoe, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office for Regional Administration and Local Government, has intervened to resolve a conflict between bajaji (auto-rickshaw) and daladala (minibus) drivers in Mbeya. The dispute, which led to a strike and the suspension of transport services, arose from a lack of consultation regarding regional directives intended to improve driver safety.

To resolve the issue, Prof. Shemdoe has ordered the formation of an assessment team to evaluate designated areas and routes for both bajaji and daladala operators. The team is also tasked with proposing transport routes to the old airport area, where a new market for street vendors (wamachinga) is planned.

The assessment team will include representatives from the Regional Commissioner’s Office, the Land Transport Regulatory Authority (LATRA), the City Council, street vendors, and drivers of boda bodas, bajajis, and daladalas. The group has 14 days to submit its report. Following this intervention, bajaji drivers have agreed to return to work.