Launch of Tanzania's electric train services marks a new era of modernisation

Dodoma. On August 1, 2024, the sun rose over the Tanzanian landscape, casting a golden hue over a historic day in the nation's journey towards modernisation.

The anticipation was palpable as dignitaries, the public and journalists from around the country gathered at the Dar es Salaam Train Station (now Magufuli Station), Morogoro Train Station (now Kikwete Station), and Dodoma Train Station (now Samia Station) for the grand launch of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) services by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

This momentous event was not just another ribbon-cutting ceremony; it was a symbol of Tanzania's leap into a new era of infrastructural development and economic transformation.

The ceremony was not confined to a single location; it was a journey itself, a testament to the transformative power of connectivity and infrastructure.

The departure from Dar es Salaam

The day began at the new SGR station in Dar es Salaam, bustling with excitement.

The modern architecture of the station, a blend of contemporary design and traditional motifs, stood as a symbol of Tanzania's progress.

The platform was adorned with flags, flowers, and traditional decorations, creating an atmosphere of celebration.

When President Samia entered the train, she stood at the door and waved goodbye to the people gathered at the station, and the train began its journey to Dodoma via Morogoro.

As the train smoothly departed from Dar es Salaam, the crowd cheered and waved.

The journey was a showcase of Tanzania’s diverse landscapes, from bustling urban centres to serene countryside vistas.

Inside the train, President Samia greeted passengers and chatted with some.

The train itself was spacious, comfortable, and equipped with the latest technology.

Passengers included government officials, local dignitaries, journalists, and excited citizens, all eager to be part of this historic journey.

On the way, passengers enjoyed the beautiful scenery of forests, villages, rivers, and the unique four underground tunnels at Kilosa (Morogoro), with a total length of 2.5 kilometres.

These tunnels were built to bypass the River Mkondoa floods.

A warm welcome in Morogoro

The first significant stop was Morogoro, a vibrant city nestled at the base of the Uluguru Mountains.

As the train approached the station, the crowd’s cheers could be heard from a distance.

President Hassan stepped off the train to a hero's welcome.

The atmosphere was electric, with traditional dancers and musicians performing to celebrate the occasion.

She took the time to speak with local residents, listening to their stories and aspirations.

In her address to the citizens of Morogoro, President Samia highlighted the benefits that the SGR would bring to the region.

“This railway is a lifeline for Morogoro. It will open up new opportunities for trade, tourism, and economic growth. Together, we will build a prosperous future,” she said, her words met with enthusiastic applause.

As the train continued its journey, the landscape transformed from the lush greenery of Morogoro to the rolling hills and plains leading to Dodoma.

Along the way, passengers enjoyed breathtaking views, engaging conversations, and a sense of camaraderie that epitomised the spirit of unity fostered by the SGR.

Grand finale in Dodoma

At approximately 4:00 PM, a sense of anticipation and excitement filled the air as the third SGR train, carrying President Samia Suluhu Hassan along with other distinguished officials, political leaders, and religious figures, arrived at Dodoma Station.

The train, a symbol of Tanzania’s commitment to modern infrastructure and regional connectivity, glided into the station with a smooth and impressive arrival.

Among the notable figures on board were senior government officials, key political leaders, and prominent religious leaders, each of whom played a role in supporting and promoting the SGR project.

Their presence highlighted the collaborative effort involved in the development of this critical infrastructure and its broader impact on the country.

The arrival at Dodoma Train Station was not just the end of a journey but a celebration of Tanzania’s progress and the ongoing efforts to enhance regional connectivity and economic growth.

The event was a testament to the country’s dedication to building a modern and efficient transportation network, and it set the stage for future developments and collaborations.

The station was adorned with flags, banners, and colourful decorations, creating a festive atmosphere.

The inauguration ceremony

The inauguration ceremony was a grand affair, attended by a diverse array of people, including retired President Jakaya Kikwete, retired President of Zanzibar Amani Abeid Karume, and retired Prime Ministers Joseph Warioba, Frederick Sumaye, and Mizengo Pinda.

Other notable leaders present were Vice President Dr Philip Mpango, President of Zanzibar Dr Hussein Mwinyi, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, and Speaker of Parliament Dr Tulia Ackson.

Traditional performances at the event showcased Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage, featuring Mjomba Mrisho Mpoto, Tanzania One Theatre (TOT) and their performers, Khadija Kopa, Bushoke, and traditional dance groups such as Kibati from Pemba, as well as others from Dodoma and Kondoa.

All provided entertainment during the launch.

A particularly poignant moment was the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by President Samia, marking the official inauguration of the SGR services.

The plaque, inscribed with words of hope and progress, stood as a testament to the country’s aspirations.

Standing at the podium, President Samia delivered a stirring speech that resonated with hope and determination.

She highlighted the SGR project as a game-changer for Tanzania, emphasising its potential to revolutionise the country's transportation infrastructure, boost trade, and foster socioeconomic development.

"This railway is not just a track of steel and concrete; it is a pathway to our future," she declared.

"It will connect our people, stimulate our economy, and enhance our standing in the East African region. Today, we embark on a journey that will transform Tanzania and bring prosperity to our beloved nation."

Also, President Samia has advised businessmen in the passenger transportation sector to enter into a partnership with the Tanzania Railway Corporation (TRC) to offer a unified ticket for transporting passengers.

She stated that every development impacts other sectors, and the launch of the SGR train service has particularly affected transportation for Dar es Salaam-Dodoma trips.

She suggested that bus owners could form a joint venture with TRC to transport passengers to areas where the SGR train does not reach.

This would involve a single ticket where passengers can transfer from the train to a bus seamlessly, using the same ticket for the continuation of their journey.

"This train has reduced travel costs, decreased travel time by 60 percent from nine hours to three and a half hours, and stimulated business activities," President Samia said.

Additionally, President Samia encouraged the private sector to utilise SGR train stations for economic development by setting up businesses such as shops and restaurants at the stations.

Also, President Samia has given instructions to integrate SGR train transport with other air and road transport systems, particularly for freight transport.

She emphasised the need to build a railway line that will transport cargo to and from Julius Nyerere International Airport (Terminal Three).

"I have been informed that the distance from the port to the airport 'Terminal Three' is 0.6 kilometers. The railway should be set up to facilitate cargo travelling by plane," she added.

Additionally, she has directed the acceleration of the construction of cargo ships to transport goods carried by the SGR train, which will help reduce the number of trucks on the road.

"Within three months, we will receive 1,430 cargo wagons. Therefore, let's develop cargo storage areas. In Dodoma, the cargo unloading area will be Ihumwa, from where it will be transported to other areas," she said.

"I thank the World Food Programme (WFP) for providing eight refrigerated waggons powered by solar electricity to transport agricultural products, ensuring it arrives in the same condition as when it was sent," she said.

"I have noticed that TRC has built a fence along the railway line, but I have also been informed that some people are cutting the wires of the fence. I urge all villages surrounding the railway to maintain and use it beneficially," she said.

President Samia has also instructed the Treasury Registrar, Nehemia Mchechu, to set performance standards for TRC employees, emphasising that she expects profitability and that the government is awaiting dividends.

President Samia explained the history of the SGR project, noting that it began with a vision established by the third-phase President, Benjamin Mkapa, who, along with his fellow East African Community (EAC) presidents, agreed to build transport infrastructure to stimulate the regional economy.

"During the fourth-phase President, Jakaya Kikwete, there was an evaluation of the railway construction, and he handed it over to the fifth-phase President, John Magufuli, who began constructing two sections: Dar es Salaam-Morogoro and Morogoro-Makutopora. I have completed those two sections," she said.

On the other hand, the Director General of TRC, Masanja Kadogosa, stated that the project will continue to other parts, including Tabora-Kigoma and Uvinza to Msongati in Burundi, eventually reaching the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

He reported that from July 14, 2024, to July 28, 2024, the Dar es Salaam-Morogoro train transported 160,000 passengers and generated Sh2.4 billion in revenue.

The Dar es Salaam-Dodoma train, operating from July 28, 2024, to August 1, 2024, transported 28,600 passengers and brought in Sh744 million.

The Minister of Transport, Professor Makame Mbarawa, announced that the construction of five new sections has begun, including Uvinza to Msongati in Burundi and from Burundi to Kitenga in the DRC.

"We are building the Uvinza-Msongati section in collaboration with the Government of Burundi," he said.

Editors describe their journey on the SGR train

Several editors from various media outlets in the country who travelled to the launch of the SGR train from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma have shared their thoughts about the experience.

Simon Mkina said it was a good journey for them.

“The journey has been great and the editors have had the opportunity to see what happens in a major strategic investment.

"The departure time was adhered to, the attendants know their duties, and the cleanliness is impeccable," said Mkina.

He advised that the environment and services on the modern trains and railways should continue to be well managed so they remain in excellent condition, rather than deteriorating over time and losing appreciation for the nation's assets.

"It should be maintained and managed well so that it lasts in quality and can be passed on to others if it continues to be good," he said.

Mbaraka Islam described the SGR train as a major reform in the transport sector that will enhance efficiency and productivity in the business and daily lives of Tanzanians.

"The government, through the TRC, could start using cargo waggons to transport goods from the port of Dar es Salaam, with trucks picking up cargo between Morogoro and Dodoma even before the SGR reaches Isaka," said Mbaraka.

He added, "It is essential to improve the infrastructure, warehouses, and cargo storage areas, and to have sufficient dry ports in Dodoma and Morogoro. This will help alleviate congestion at the port and on the roads in Dar es Salaam."

He also emphasised that the services inside the SGR carriages should be upgraded to meet international standards, as the infrastructure and carriages themselves are of international quality.

Amina Chekanae, who is the editor of Jehova Jire TV and Classic FM DSM, shared her personal experience: "Personally, I am very happy to travel today. The train route is good, the staff are professional, and inside the train is calm.

“I was comfortable, and despite the short travel time, I did not feel any fatigue, leg swelling, or swaying. TRC, you have done an excellent job. You should continue to encourage people to use this service, but remember, 'What goes up must come down'."

"I will be a good ambassador because I have enjoyed it a lot," she said.

For his part, Peter Nyanje remarked that the trip was very good.

"It seems that the investment made is substantial and beneficial. A good way to support this investment is for Tanzania to use this transport. Complaining about the costs is not productive, as these are the costs associated with modern, high-quality developments," he said.

For her part, Editor Eshe Muhidin from TBC said: "SGR train travel, aside from its pleasures, is a source of pride for Tanzania because such a development has never happened in Africa,” she said.