The first electric railway terminal in Dar es Salaam for Eastern Africa has officially opened, marking a major milestone in Tanzania’s transport infrastructure. The terminal, shaped like the rare gemstone tanzanite, symbolizes the country’s ambitions to modernize and strengthen its rail connectivity. This state-of-the-art terminal is part of Tanzania’s broader initiative to build a 2,560 km (1,590-mile) Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), a project aimed at enhancing transportation efficiency and linking Tanzania to neighboring countries, including Burundi, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
A Landmark Project for Eastern Africa
The first electric railway terminal in Dar es Salaam for Eastern Africa is not only the first of its kind in the region but also a cornerstone of the country’s future transport plans. The newly launched terminal serves as the starting point for the Dar es Salaam to Dodoma railway route, a 460 km (285-mile) line that cuts travel time between the cities by half. Trains now complete the journey in less than four hours, a significant improvement from the previous road or slower rail services.
The project is part of Tanzania’s strategic plan to develop a modern transport network. President Samia Suluhu Hassan hailed the railway as “a pathway to our future,” emphasizing that it will enhance Tanzania’s role in regional trade and connectivity. She noted that the railway would improve Tanzania’s standing in East Africa, further positioning the country as a transport hub for landlocked neighbors.
Modern Facilities and Passenger Comfort
The first electric railway terminal in Dar es Salaam for Eastern Africa boasts cutting-edge facilities designed to improve passenger experience. The terminal’s sleek design, inspired by the country’s famous tanzanite gemstone, is emblematic of modernity and progress. Inside, the station has the feel of an airport terminal, with security checks, baggage scanning, and a calm boarding process. The trains themselves are comfortable, with clean and reclining seats, foldable tray tables, and services offering hot and cold drinks.
For many Tanzanians, the electric railway represents a significant upgrade from older, slower trains. Passengers who have traveled on the new SGR line have praised the smooth ride and modern amenities, contrasting it with previous experiences on more uncomfortable and outdated services. One passenger, Hilaly Mussa Maginga, recalled his difficult past journeys on older trains but was impressed by the new service, describing the experience as calm and enjoyable.
Economic and Social Impact
The first electric railway terminal in Dar es Salaam for Eastern Africa also represents a broader effort to boost Tanzania’s economy and regional influence. The railway is expected to facilitate faster movement of goods and passengers, reduce transportation costs, and increase regional trade. Plans to introduce freight services in 2024 will further enhance the line’s economic contributions, particularly for transporting goods across borders to neighboring countries.
However, not everyone has benefited from the railway’s development. Bus operators, particularly those based in Dodoma, have reported a significant drop in business since the new railway began operations. Adam Ally Mwanshinga, chairman of the Dodoma Bus Terminal Agents’ Union, expressed concerns over the decline in passengers choosing buses, as the convenience and speed of the new train service has attracted more travelers. While the bus service remains cheaper, the efficiency of the electric railway is proving more popular.
Challenges and Future Prospects
The construction of the first electric railway terminal in Dar es Salaam for Eastern Africa was not without challenges. Initially scheduled to be completed in 2019, the project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, rising construction costs, and labor issues. Despite these setbacks, the railway is now operational, with Turkish and Chinese firms contributing to the construction of different sections.
Tanzania’s use of electricity to power its trains has significantly reduced operational costs compared to neighboring Kenya’s diesel-powered trains. However, occasional power failures have disrupted services. To address this, Tanzania is building a dedicated power transmission line to ensure stable electricity for the railway, reducing the risk of disruptions.
Looking Ahead
The first electric railway terminal in Dar es Salaam for Eastern Africa marks the beginning of a transformative era for Tanzania and the broader East African region. While questions remain about the overall cost of the project, estimated at $10 billion, its long-term benefits are expected to outweigh the initial investment. The railway is already generating enough income from passengers to cover operational costs, and with freight services set to launch soon, its economic impact is likely to grow.
As the SGR network expands, Tanzania aims to become a central player in regional transport and logistics, connecting Eastern Africa more efficiently and fostering economic growth.
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