The daladala diaries: Sprawlers and armrest dominators

If you’ve ever braved a ride on a Tanzanian daladala, you know it’s more than just transportation—it’s a social experiment.

Among the colourful array of passengers, there are two notorious characters who seem to have perfected the art of making a crowded ride even more unbearable: the Sprawlers and the Armrest Dominators.

You board the daladala, already crammed with humanity, hoping to find a seat or at least a corner to stand in peace.

And there they are: the Sprawlers. Sitting with their knees wide apart, as if auditioning for a throne, these people occupy not just their seat but part of yours too.

Their obliviousness is unmatched. No amount of subtle nudging or side-eyes seems to faze them. You’re left clinging to the edge of the bench, balancing like a circus act.

The worst part? They look at you as if you’re the one inconveniencing them.

Why this need for so much space? Is it a misplaced sense of dominance, a sheer lack of self-awareness, or just stubborn entitlement?

Whatever the reason, one thing’s for sure: they’ve mastered the art of turning a shared seat into a personal recliner.

If you think you’ve escaped discomfort by standing, think again.

Enter the Armrest Dominators—those who claim both armrests with the confidence of someone who owns the daladala.

Picture this: You’re seated, squished shoulder-to-shoulder, trying to find a comfortable angle. But there’s that one guy who plants his elbows firmly on both sides, refusing to yield even an inch.

His arms become immovable barriers, and you’re left with no choice but to sit awkwardly, shoulders scrunched like a defeated turtle.

What’s worse is their nonchalant demeanour. They’re usually scrolling on their phones, lost in their own world, blissfully unaware (or pretending to be) of the inconvenience they’re causing.

Why it’s annoying (and unnecessary)

Daladalas are meant to be shared spaces. Everyone’s paying the same fare and enduring the same challenges—why make it harder for others?

These habits aren’t just selfish; they highlight a disregard for the basic etiquette of public transport.

What if we all just respected each other’s space? A slight adjustment of posture or a simple act of awareness could transform the daladala experience.

To the Sprawlers: Sit like you’ve paid for one seat, not three.

Compartmentalise yourself; we’re all struggling here.

To the Armrest Dominators: Share the armrest! Or better yet, let the person who’s visibly uncomfortable use it.

Public transport is a communal effort. If we all make small changes, daladala rides could become less of an endurance test and more of a tolerable journey. Let’s make the ride smoother—literally and figuratively.

What’s your most annoying daladala experience? Share your stories; I’m sure we can all relate.