Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has directed government officials to travel together in a single bus during official engagements, as part of efforts to cut fuel consumption amid rising shortages linked to the Middle East conflict.
Speaking on Wednesday at a swearing-in ceremony, Hassan announced that only a limited core convoy would accompany her on official trips. This would include her security escort, police vehicles, and a backup car, while all other officials would be required to use a shared bus.
“From now on, wherever I go, all officials will travel together in one bus… to cut fuel consumption,” she said.
The move marks a significant shift from the usual presidential motorcade, which often includes more than 30 vehicles ranging from luxury SUVs to police outriders and is known to cause major traffic disruptions.
Tanzania has been grappling with a sharp increase in fuel prices, which have risen by roughly one-third since March, according to the country’s energy regulator.
The surge has been linked to global supply disruptions following tensions in the Middle East, particularly the effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran — a key route through which about 20 percent of the world’s oil and gas supplies typically pass.
Other countries in the region are also taking measures to manage fuel shortages. Last week, Ethiopia announced it would prioritise fuel access for vehicles transporting essential goods and those operating in the public transport sector.
Credit: Vanguard
