Africa-Press – Tanzania. AS the government continues to maintain peace and strengthen security in Dar es Salaam, an initial assessment conducted by authorities and petroleum stakeholders has revealed that 41 fuel stations were affected during the recent skirmishes in major cities across the country.
However, the government, through the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA), has assured the public that the quality and supply of fuel remain uncompromised stressing that all unaffected stations are operating safely and selling fuel at official indicative prices.
Speaking during a meeting with petroleum stakeholders in Dar es Salaam yesterday, Deputy Secretary General of the Tanzania Petroleum Station Owners and Operators Association (TAPSOA), Mahafuth Maulid, said that 41 fuel stations across the country were affected during the unrest, including 25 in Dar es Salaam.
Of the 25 damaged fuel stations in Dar es Salaam, 22 belong to Lake Oil, while the remaining three are operated by Oryx, Puma and Rupeez.
“A total of 41 fuel stations were damaged, with Lake Oil losing 38 outlets including 16 stations in upcountry,” he said.
Mr Maulid said, currently Tanzania has 2,600 registered fuel stations, with 476 located in Dar es Salaam, representing 17 per cent of the total.
He added that the number is expected to rise as the city continues to expand, he confirmed that all affected stations have since reopened after safety inspections and that fuel supply and prices remain stable.
He urged the government to create a safe mechanism for supplying fuel in containers especially for use in communication towers, boats and generators, stressing that safety standards must always be observed.
Oilcom Manager, Mr Usama Mohammed called for increased public awareness on the proper use and handling of fuel, saying that vandalising fuel stations disrupts essential services.
“People must understand that fuel dealers are service providers, not enemies. When stations are vandalised, essential sectors like transport and power generation suffer,” he said.
He further assured that the price structure for October remains unchanged, reflecting the stability of the market amid recovery efforts.
Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner (RC), Albert Chalamila reaffirmed that the government remains steadfast in protecting lives, property and businesses, saying it will continue working closely with stakeholders to strengthen peace and security.
“The government stands shoulder to shoulder with all stakeholders to ensure a secure business environment at all times,” he said.
Mr Chalamila described Dar es Salaam as the heartbeat of Tanzania’s economy, serving as the main trade gateway for Zambia, Malawi, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“Dar es Salaam is the heart of our nation. Any instability here disrupts the economy and affects millions of Tanzanians,” he stressed.
He said protecting Dar es Salaam’s peace means protecting the national economy.
The RC also called on local leaders to intensify community education, especially among bodaboda and bajaji riders and petty traders, urging them to value peace and safeguard public infrastructure.
“When small businesses stop operating, families lose income. We must talk to our youth and help them understand the importance of peace,” he said.
Mr Chalamila added that under the directives of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the government continues to conduct reconciliation meetings with different community groups to promote unity and national healing.
“This is a time for dialogue and reconciliation. Tanzania is one nation, it cannot be divided,” he stressed.
He also assured that all goods and fuel tankers seized during recent security operations are being returned to verified owners under the supervision of the TRA, EWURA, and the Police Force.
Mr Chalamila said police investigations are ongoing to identify and prosecute those responsible for the violence.
“Our goal is not to harm anyone but to protect peace and ensure the rule of law. Anyone who instigated violence will face justice,” he said.
The RC reaffirmed the government’s resolve to safeguard peace, security, and economic progress in Dar es Salaam and across Tanzania.
“Let us remain patient, united and focused. Our country is one, and it must remain one,” he declared.
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