Z’bar govt approves speedboat fare increase

ZANZIBAR: THE Zanzibar government has approved an increase in speedboat fares between Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam, raising the economy class fare from 30,000/- to 35,000/-.

This change took effect on October 7, 2024, due to rising operational costs. At a press conference held at the Zanzibar Ports Corporation (ZPC), Zanzibar Maritime Authority (ZMA) Director General Ms Mtumwa Said Sandali explained that the increase was justified after extensive discussions between her office and boat owners.

“The operational costs have been driven up by rising fuel prices, the increasing exchange rate of the US dollar against the Tanzanian shilling and maintenance and labor costs. As a result, we have agreed to the marine companies’ request for a fare increase,” Ms Mtumwa stated.

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She noted that marine transport companies pay their taxes to the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) in US dollars. Ms Mtumwa acknowledged that marine transport companies, including Azam Marine and Zan Fast Ferries, had requested a higher fare.

However, her office insisted that the fare not exceed 35,000/-, as this class is primarily used by low-income passengers. The press conference also served as an opportunity for Ms Mtumwa to urge travellers to purchase tickets from authorised agents to avoid fraud and ensure proper record-keeping in the event of an accident.

She also reminded boat owners to adhere to regulations, including prohibitions on overloading.

The ZMA director general’s remarks come in response to complaints from travellers about what they described as a “silent fare hike” and the government’s lack of communication on the issue.

Travel between Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam has been increasing due to trade and business demands, but prices for other classes and routes, including Zanzibar to Pemba, remain unchanged.