Burundian truck drivers are protesting a $10 tax per 100 kilometers imposed by Tanzania on
goods transport trucks, citing it as a financial burden that undermines their livelihoods. The fee
amounts to approximately $350 for each truck journeying from Burundi’s Kobero border to
Tanzania’s capital, Dar es Salaam.
Isidore Mike Manirakiza, head of the Association of long-distance truck drivers-ACHACA,
criticizes the charges as excessive, highlighting the stark disparity with fees imposed on
Tanzanian trucks entering Burundi, which are around $152.
“Every truck crossing into Tanzania to Dar es Salaam is obliged to pay about $10 per 100
kilometers. This is a heavy burden on transportation,” Manirakiza stated, noting that Tanzania
collects about $200 more per vehicle than Burundi.
The journey from Kobero to Dar es Salaam spans over 1,000 kilometers, while the distance from
Kobero to Bujumbura, Burundi’s economic capital, is under 300 kilometers. Manirakiza
expressed concerns over financial losses faced by Burundian truck drivers and urged the
government to advocate for equality in transport charges.
Jean Nduwimana, an executive in the Ministry of Youth and EAC Affairs, acknowledged the
challenge, stating that Tanzania’s fees are intended for road repairs. However, he criticized the
steep charges, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment between the two nations.
“The government of Burundi has proposed conducting in-depth studies on this issue to address
the disparities in transportation costs and infrastructure,” Nduwimana said.
With over 100 goods trucks crossing the Kobero border daily, drivers are urging immediate
action to reinforce Burundi’s transport sector and ensure fairness in cross-border trade.
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