In a significant boost to local infrastructure and education, Minister for Works, Innocent Bashungwa, visited Mkuranga District today to launch multiple development projects aimed at enhancing the lives of residents.
The highlight of Bashungwa’s visit was the inauguration of a newly constructed administrative building at Mwandege Secondary School, funded by the Mkuranga District Council with an investment of 119.9 million shillings.
The project reflects the government's commitment to improving educational facilities in the region, ensuring students and teachers have a conducive environment for learning.
"Today's opening of this administrative building is a testament to our dedication to education," said Bashungwa. "Investing in our schools is crucial for the future of our children and the growth of our communities."
During the tour, Bashungwa also launched a new bridge on the Mwanambaya - Mipeko road, which crosses the Mzinga River.
Constructed under the supervision of the Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA), this infrastructure improvement is expected to facilitate easier transportation and communication, promoting economic activities in the surrounding wards of Mipeko, Mwanambaya, and Mbande.
The Minister announced plans to further enhance road connectivity by seeking a contractor to build a modern bridge over the Mzinga River, addressing the ongoing traffic congestion on the Dar es Salaam - Lindi highway, particularly in the heavily trafficked Mbagala area.
Responding to a request from the Coastal Region's Commissioner, Bashungwa highlighted the necessity of upgrading the Vikindu - Vianzi - Sangatini road, which links Mkuranga and Kigamboni districts.
He urged Eng. Dorothy Mtenga, Acting Executive Director of TANROADS, to prioritize collaboration with the Coastal Regional Commissioner's Office to ensure effective road expansion plans are implemented.
Regional Commissioner Abubakar Kunenge expressed gratitude for the financial support from President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who allocated 121.1 billion shillings for road infrastructure projects managed by TANROADS and TARURA, emphasizing the importance of these developments for regional progress.
Khadija Ali, District Commissioner of Mkuranga, added that the district is seeing significant investment in education, with new government secondary schools being constructed, furthering the goal of providing quality education to the youth.
Mr. Ditrick Hokororo, Headmaster of Mwandege Secondary School, praised the new administrative building for its role in enhancing the learning experience.
"The new facility allows us to maximize our classroom space, ultimately benefiting our students' education," he stated.
As Minister Bashungwa concluded his visit, the community's enthusiasm for the ongoing projects was palpable.
Local residents and leaders alike expressed optimism about the positive changes these initiatives will bring, highlighting a collective commitment to development and progress in the Coastal Region.