Wednesday, February 12, 2025

'Boda Boda' crashes killed 1,113 in Tanzania

DODOMA, Tanzania

The government of Tanzania has said that in the period from 2022 to 2024, a total of 1,113 people has lost their lives due to accidents caused by motorcycles (BodaBoda) in the country.

Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday February 11, the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs, Daniel Sillo said that the accidents killed 759 motorcycle drivers, 283 passengers and 71 pedestrians who were hit by a motorcycle.

"I call on all motorcyclists to comply with the road safety law in order to reduce accidents that affect many citizens and reduce the workforce in our nation," he said.

In addition, Mr. Sillo called on the public to avoid riding motorcycles with more than one passenger known as 'mishikaki' to avoid more serious consequences.

According to the research conducted by our reporter, most accidents are caused by over speeding, avoiding road safety rules, driving a motorcycle while drunk and without wearing a helmet.

In Tanzania and other African countries where motorcycles are major mode of transport in the urban and remote areas, the motorcycle accidents are a silent killer.

Motorcycles are less stable and less visible than cars and often have high performance capabilities. When motorcycles crash, their riders lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle, so they're more likely to be injured or killed.

Motorcycle riders are up to 29 times more likely to die in a motorcycle crash than in a car accident.

Though deadly, Bodaboda transport play a crucial role in the transportation system, providing affordable and accessible access to movement for many Tanzanians, especially in urban areas. 

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