Currently, Mkinga's group is engaged in constructing a vented drift bridge, clearing 5 kilometers of road, and building 5 meters of drainage to protect the Mundindi-Ngogoma road. Photo: Courtesy
By The Respondent reporter
Community groups engaged in small-scale construction and maintenance of road infrastructure in Ludewa District have expressed their gratitude to the Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) for providing them with contracts that have significantly improved their economic status.
During a visit by a delegation from the Republic of Sierra Leone to Lugarawa Ward, members of these groups shared their success stories stemming from their partnerships with TARURA. They highlighted various benefits they have experienced, including economic growth and empowerment.
Manyanya Mkinga, the chairperson of the 'Tujipime' group, which consists of 22 members living with HIV, noted that since their group's registration in 2019, they have gained numerous advantages through TARURA contracts.
“By uniting, we felt empowered and no longer marginalized. The work we have received from TARURA has truly improved our lives.
Despite living with HIV, we have managed to perform our duties effectively. We are extremely grateful to TARURA for enabling us to secure this work,” Mkinga stated.
He detailed the benefits they have reaped since starting work with TARURA in 2020, which include building homes, purchasing land (for avocado farming and beekeeping), funding their children's education, and enrolling in the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).
Currently, Mkinga's group is engaged in constructing a vented drift bridge, clearing 5 kilometers of road, and building 5 meters of drainage to protect the Mundindi-Ngogoma road, a project they commenced in September and expect to complete by the end of October.
Similarly, Gutfred Mbilinyi, the chairperson of the Twili Lupangala Road Works group, mentioned that their group was established after being inspired by TARURA.
He noted the personal benefits they've gained and their ability to initiate projects such as farming, livestock keeping, and purchasing three motorcycles (bodaboda), with plans to acquire a vehicle for transporting goods.
Mohamed Kallon, the head of the Sierra Leonean delegation and Chief Executive Officer of the country's Road Maintenance Fund, expressed delight in visiting these groups and witnessing their impactful work.
He emphasized how the income generated has facilitated members in building homes, purchasing motorcycles, and educating their children. He commended the 'Tujipime' group for their excellent efforts in securing livelihoods.
Meanwhile, Venant Komba, the TARURA Executive Director representative and Director of Roads, noted that the visit from the Sierra Leonean delegation has been highly beneficial for both parties.
He emphasized that Sierra Leone has shown interest in Tanzania's establishment of a professional agency overseeing district road activities, its specialized road data management system, stone technology, community involvement in project design, and the role of community groups in infrastructure development and maintenance.
This collaboration highlights the significant impact that community-based initiatives and partnerships with governmental agencies can have on local economic empowerment and infrastructure development.
