ARUSHA: ARUMERU District has launched a special operation to identify all motorcycle taxi (bodaboda) operators as part of efforts to curb crime and improve community security.
Arumeru District Commissioner Neema Lugangira said the exercise would involve the Police Force and other security organs, with no operator allowed to conduct bodaboda business in the district without being identified by local leaders.
She said the initiative would also include public awareness campaigns to encourage residents to use only recognised bodaboda operators, adding that some individuals had been using the business as a cover for criminal activities, tarnishing the reputation of the wider group.
Ms Lugangira announced the measures on Tuesday during the inauguration of offices for the Bodaboda Operators’ Union at Arusha District Council.
She said operators would be required to carry special identification cards and wear identifying clothing bearing Quick Response (QR) codes to facilitate verification and help authorities trace individuals suspected of criminal activities.
Describing bodaboda operators as important partners in maintaining community security, she urged them to cooperate with security organs by reporting individuals suspected of abusing the business to commit crimes.
She said the goal was to make Arumeru’s bodaboda operators a national example of professionalism, discipline and respect for the law, while pledging to work with them to improve their economic circumstances.
In a related development, Ms Lugangira pledged that her office would provide furniture for the union’s offices, including tables, chairs and a cabinet, following a request submitted by the operators.
She also encouraged young people to take advantage of the council’s loans for youth groups to help them purchase their own motorcycles and reduce dependence on contract arrangements with difficult terms.
Former Secretary-General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Martin Chung’ong, urged bodaboda operators to conduct their business professionally, describing them as ambassadors of Tanzania to visitors travelling to Arusha.
Mr Chung’ong pledged to serve as an ambassador for Arumeru by helping connect residents with international opportunities. He also contributed 200 US dollars towards the purchase of a computer for the union’s office, while NMB Bank pledged to provide a printer.
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Arusha Regional Bodaboda Union Secretary Hakim Msemo commended Ms Lugangira for meeting the operators and demonstrating a commitment to addressing their challenges.
He expressed confidence that her engagement with the group would help improve their working conditions and strengthen cooperation between operators and district authorities.
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