The Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) recently welcomed a delegation from Sierra Leone seeking to learn advanced techniques in infrastructure development, focusing on Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems and the Tanzanite Bridge.
The delegation included officials from various institutions under Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Works.
During the visit, TANROADS' Acting Chief Executive, Engineer Ephatar Mlavi, guided the group through the third phase of the BRT project, which runs from Gongolamboto to Posta.
Impressed by the project, the visitors acknowledged that such a system would greatly ease traffic congestion in Sierra Leone, where no similar initiative currently exists.
"Our guests came to gain insights from us as they aim to improve their road infrastructure. They were impressed by our work on BRT projects and bridges, including the Tanzanite Bridge, as well as other developments like ring roads in Dodoma and road expansions in cities such as Mbeya, Arusha, and Dar es Salaam," said Engineer Mlavi.
The delegation also visited the Tanzanite Bridge at Salender, where they explored techniques for building bridges over water.
They further observed how TANROADS integrates local engineering expertise in constructing key transportation networks that connect regions and promote economic activities.
Engineer Mlavi attributed TANROADS' achievements to the competence of its professionals and the close collaboration between the agency, the central government, and key ministries.
He stressed that strategic planning plays a crucial role in the agency's success.
Mohamed Kallon, Executive Director of Sierra Leone’s Roads Fund, commended TANROADS for its accomplishments, noting that although the Tanzanian agency was established more recently in 2000—compared to their own in 1992—it has achieved significant milestones in road infrastructure development.
Ms. Martha Gbouma, a public educator from Sierra Leone's local government, expressed admiration for TANROADS' efforts.
"We’ve seen excellent work here, and we look forward to applying the knowledge we’ve gained to improve road infrastructure in Sierra Leone," she said.
Engineer Kingstone Gongera, a road asset management specialist, highlighted how the visit deepened their understanding of road maintenance supported by Tanzania’s Roads Fund.
"This experience will help us refine our maintenance strategies back home," he added.
The visit marks another step in strengthening cooperation between the two countries, with Sierra Leone aiming to adopt best practices observed in Tanzania to advance its infrastructure sector.
