Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan on Wednesday directed government officials to travel together in a single bus during official trips, as part of measures to cut fuel consumption amid shortages linked to the Middle East conflict.
Fuel prices in the East African nation have surged by about one-third since March, according to the country’s energy regulator.
Speaking at a swearing-in ceremony, Hassan said only her core convoy, comprising her security detail, police escort, and a backup vehicle, would be maintained during official movements.
Her presidential motorcade typically includes more than 30 vehicles, ranging from luxury SUVs to police outriders, often causing significant traffic disruptions.
“From now on, wherever I go, all officials will travel together in one bus to reduce fuel consumption,” Hassan said.
The fuel strain follows disruptions tied to tensions in the Middle East, including constraints around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route through which roughly a fifth of the world’s oil and gas supplies pass.
Elsewhere in the region, Ethiopia last week announced plans to prioritise fuel access for vehicles transporting essential goods and those in the public transport sector.
AFP
