By Alfred Zacharia
The Tanzanian government has earmarked
TZS 34 billion for the construction of a modern One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) at
Manyovu, a critical border area between Tanzania and Burundi, aiming to boost
trade in the Kigoma region with neighboring countries.
This was announced by the Minister of
Works and Transport, Innocent Bashungwa, during a public address in Mnanira,
Manyovu, as part of Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango's tour to inspect
development projects in Kigoma.
Minister Bashungwa stated, “The
Ministry of Works is in the process of selecting a contractor to build the
state-of-the-art facility within our country. The funds amounting to TZS 34
billion have already been allocated to commence this significant project.”
He emphasized that the new OSBP will
enhance trade and position Kigoma as a vital commercial hub for Tanzania and
neighboring countries, including Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo
(DRC). The modern facility aims to streamline border processes, reduce delays,
and improve the overall efficiency of cross-border trade.
Bashungwa assured that the Ministry of
Works will collaborate with the Ministry of Finance to compensate the residents
who will be displaced by the construction of the OSBP, with an allocated amount
of Sh 1.7 billion set aside for this purpose.
In a related development, Bashungwa
pledged to deliver key road infrastructure projects in Kigoma by March 2025.
These projects include the Malagarasi – Ilunde – Uvinza road (51.1 km), Kasulu
- Buhigwe - Manyovu road (68.2 km), and Kasulu – Kibondo road (16 km), all of
which will be upgraded to tarmac standards to facilitate commercial activities
and investment in the region.
Moreover, Bashungwa revealed that
Tanroads (Tanzania National Roads Agency) will construct a modern roundabout in
Buhigwe town as part of the Kasulu - Buhigwe - Manyovu road project to enhance
the town's aesthetics and functionality.
Providing an update on the project,
Tanroads Regional Manager for Kigoma, Engineer Narcis Choma, highlighted
several community support initiatives integrated into the road project for the Buhigwe
district. These include the construction of clean water and sanitation
infrastructure, a bus station, and the renovation of Buhigwe Market.
Contractors for these projects have been secured and are ready to begin work
imminently.
This ambitious infrastructure
initiative reflects the Tanzanian government's commitment to fostering regional
development and strengthening economic ties with neighboring countries,
ultimately enhancing the prosperity and connectivity of the Kigoma region.