Dala dala

A dala dala is a type of shared minibus or truck used as public transportation in Tanzania, particularly common in urban areas like Dar es Salaam and Arusha. The name is believed to be derived from the Swahili word "dalla," which means "dollar," likely referring to the low fare historically charged.

Dala dalas are typically privately owned and operated, and they often follow established routes, though these routes may not always be formally marked or rigidly adhered to. They are usually brightly painted and often adorned with decorations, slogans, or religious sayings.

Dala dalas are known for being a crowded and sometimes chaotic mode of transport, as drivers often try to maximize their passenger load. Passengers enter and exit at designated stops or anywhere along the route at the driver's discretion. A conductor, also known as a makanga, typically collects fares and shouts out the destination or route to attract passengers.

While dala dalas are an affordable and accessible transportation option for many Tanzanians, they can also be associated with safety concerns due to overloading, reckless driving, and poor vehicle maintenance. Efforts have been made to regulate the dala dala industry to improve safety and efficiency. They are an integral part of Tanzanian culture and daily life, representing a vibrant and often challenging aspect of the country's urban landscape.