Tanzania driver strike ends after government pledges to address licence grievances

A two-day nationwide strike by bus and truck drivers in Tanzania has been called off following government intervention. The strike, which began on September 29, 2026, disrupted passenger travel and freight movement across several regions, including Dar es Salaam, Mbeya, and Songwe. The stoppage posed a significant risk to the Dar es Salaam–Zambia transport corridor, potentially affecting supply chains for Zambia-bound cargo.

Drivers protested against several traffic enforcement measures, specifically a driving-licence penalty-points system, heavy fines, and the suspension of licences. They also cited poor road infrastructure and discrepancies in the Vehicle Tracking System (VTS) data.

To resolve the dispute, Interior Minister Patrobas Katambi and Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba held talks with driver representatives. The government pledged to address grievances through official channels, including the reinstatement of licences for those involved in minor offenses via an appeals authority. Additionally, four government ministries will collaborate to review challenges related to the VTS system.