Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has directed government officials to adopt stricter fuel-saving measures, including travelling in a single bus during official trips, as the country grapples with rising fuel costs.
The directive was announced on Wednesday during a swearing-in ceremony, where Hassan explained that the move is aimed at reducing fuel consumption amid shortages linked to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Under the new arrangement, only a limited number of vehicles—comprising her essential security convoy, including escorts, police, and a backup vehicle—will accompany the president.
Previously, the presidential convoy often consisted of more than 30 vehicles, including luxury SUVs and security units, a practice that frequently caused traffic disruptions.
“From now on, wherever I go, all officials will travel together in one bus to cut fuel consumption,” Hassan said.
Fuel prices in Tanzania have surged by roughly one-third since March, according to the country’s energy regulator, placing additional strain on the economy.
The situation has been worsened by disruptions in global oil supply, particularly due to tensions in the Middle East and the effective blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran—a key route for a significant share of the world’s oil shipments.
Across the region, governments are taking similar steps.
In neighbouring Ethiopia, authorities recently announced plans to prioritise fuel allocation for vehicles transporting essential goods and those in the public transport sector.
