Shops closed at Kariakoo as traders go on strike over levies

Dar es Salaam. Many shops on Monday, May 15, in Dar es Salaam's busy Kariakoo business hub, remained closed due to  strike by traders calling for the removal of levies imposed and collected by the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA).

Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner, Mr Amos Makalla, arrived on the scene and urged traders to cease striking and open their shops saying the authorities are working on their matter.

However, the RC’s request for them to meet the Prime Minister, Kassim Majaliwa, in Dodoma was turned down by traders.

The businessmen who convened another meeting after Mr Makalla had left said that they pay taxes, so if the PM wants to meet with them, he should go to Karaiakoo and not otherwise.

During their meeting, the traders said they wanted to meet President Samia Suluhu Hassan to express their concerns while insisting on continuing to close their shops.

One of the traders, whose name was not immediately identified said no trader is allowed to open his or her shop.

"Chairman, don't be afraid; we are behind you; don't be afraid of anything," he said during the meeting called by Kariakoo traders union’ chairman.

However, regardless of the strike, no violence has been reported, as policemen were seen in various parts of Kariakoo patrolling the area.

Kariakoo hosts an extensive market, which is a major contribution to Dar es Salaam's economy. Also, traders in and outside Tanzania are dependent on the old market for the purchase of retail and wholesale products, which include agricultural, veterinary, and medicine, among others.