Tanzania's Transport Authority Takes Action Against Ticket Scalping During Holiday Rush
The holiday season has brought a surge in travel demand, causing a shortage of upcountry buses and a rise in ticket scalping. In response, the Land Transport Regulatory Authority (Latra) has introduced a swift solution to balance supply and demand.
The Controversial Issue of Ticket Scalping:
Ticket scalping, a practice where individuals buy tickets to resell them at higher prices, has been exposed during this travel rush. Fares have skyrocketed, with Dar es Salaam to Njombe tickets jumping from Sh48,000 to Sh65,000. Resellers admit that bus owners coordinate this practice, profiting from the high demand. But here's where it gets controversial: passengers are also said to contribute by insisting on traveling even when buses are full.
Authorities Step In:
Latra's announcement on December 3, 2025, allows bus operators to apply for short-term licenses to run extra services on busy routes. This move aims to reduce congestion and increase bus availability. Applicants must meet strict safety and reliability criteria, including a minimum capacity of 40 passengers, valid licenses, and connection to the Vehicle Tracking System. All tickets must be sold through the official platform, Tiketi Mtandao, to combat fraud.
The Impact on Passengers:
Despite these measures, passengers report ongoing ticket scalping. Young resellers at terminals continue to sell tickets for cash, even when online systems show sold-out services. Some passengers have paid inflated prices, while others have had to postpone their trips. Latra encourages passengers to book online and consider rail transport for certain routes.
The Holiday Rush in Zanzibar:
Zanzibar experiences a similar travel frenzy, with large crowds at ticket offices. Students and workers rush to visit relatives during the holidays, and early school closures contribute to the travel surge. The increased demand has also impacted food vendors, who are grateful for the business despite limited seating.
This situation raises questions about the effectiveness of Latra's measures and the role of passengers in the ticket scalping issue. Are these temporary solutions enough, or is there a deeper problem that needs addressing? Share your thoughts below!
