By
The Respondent reporter
Gairo,
Morogoro – The Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) in Gairo
District has made significant progress on the construction of the Lebenya stone
bridge, fulfilling a directive from President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan to
enhance connectivity in the Morogoro Region.
The bridge, spanning 45 meters, is expected to
facilitate travel between the districts of Gairo, Kilosa, and Kilindi,
addressing the area’s infrastructure needs with funds reallocated from the
construction of the Berega bridge.
Minister
of State in the President's Office (Special Duties), Capt. George Mkuchika,
recently visited the construction site, noting that the bridge was 75%
complete.
He praised the efforts to carry out President
Samia’s commitment to restoring vital infrastructure affected by last year’s
heavy rains, which had damaged numerous roads and bridges across the country.
"I
am pleased to see that President Samia’s directive has been met," said
Capt. Mkuchika. "This new bridge will greatly improve transportation for
residents, making travel safer and more efficient."
Tarura’s
Gairo District Manager, Engineer Simon Masala, provided an update on the
project, explaining that Sh 1.3 billion from the Berega bridge project was
directed towards improving the Berega-Kinyolisi-Makuyu road, constructing the
Lebenya stone bridge, and installing necessary culverts.
The bridge, valued at Sh 373 million, is
expected to be fully operational by May 15, 2025, and will benefit seven wards,
impacting an estimated 766,507 residents across the districts of Gairo, Kilosa,
and Kilindi.
"This
road offers a much-needed shortcut from Kilindi in Tanga Region to Morogoro,
covering only 18 kilometers to the junction leading to Morogoro instead of the
44-kilometer route through Gairo. Once completed, it will enable year-round
transport of goods, boosting the local economy,” explained Engineer Masala.
Residents
have welcomed the development, expressing optimism for improved access to
markets. Mr. John Semwenda, a resident of Italagwe village, thanked the
government for prioritizing the bridge, noting that it would allow them to
easily transport their crops, particularly pigeon peas, to market.
The
Lebenya bridge project stands as a key investment in regional infrastructure,
poised to enhance economic activities and simplify transportation for thousands
in Morogoro Region.