Govt launches digital registration of small traders

DODOMA: THE government has launched a digital registration drive targeting small traders, including motorcycle riders commonly referred to as bodaboda operators, to economically empower them and improve their livelihoods. Deputy Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Mwanaidi Ali Khamis made the announcement in Parliament yesterday while responding to a basic question from …

DODOMA: THE government has launched a digital registration drive targeting small traders, including motorcycle riders commonly referred to as bodaboda operators, to economically empower them and improve their livelihoods.

Deputy Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Mwanaidi Ali Khamis made the announcement in Parliament yesterday while responding to a basic question from Special Seats MP Asha Abdullah Juma (CCM), who inquired about the government’s plan to register motorcycle riders.

In response, she said the registration, which began in March 2024, is being implemented in collaboration with the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PORALG) through Small Business Coordination Desks in all 184 Local Government Authorities.

“As of May 11, 2025, a total of 3,032 bodaboda operators had been registered, including 2,921 men and 111 women,” said the deputy minister.

“The process is voluntary and conducted by specially trained officers within local authorities.”

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The initiative is part of a broader government strategy to extend official recognition to informal traders, enabling them to access economic opportunities through digital identification and coordination of their daily activities.

In a supplementary question, MP Asha raised concerns over safety for both bodaboda operators and passengers, given the sector’s high rate of road accidents.

Responding, the deputy minister said it is important to comply with road safety laws, particularly the mandatory use of helmets.

“It is the responsibility of every passenger and operator to wear a helmet. I urge all drivers to ensure their passengers are properly equipped for their own safety,” she said.

She added that while many bodaboda operators are already registered under traffic regulations, the ongoing exercise seeks to integrate them into a formal economic system through the issuance of digital IDs.

“President Samia Suluhu Hassan recognises the importance of improving citizens’ quality of life. This registration initiative is part of efforts to open broader economic opportunities for small-scale traders,” she said.