Tanzania’s Minister for Works, Abdallah Ulega, has urged the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) to prioritize local youth in road construction projects.
He emphasized that employing Tanzanians in these projects would provide much-needed jobs, enhance skills, and strengthen the country’s economy.
Speaking to residents of Ndungu Ward in Same District during the handover ceremony for the 36-kilometer Ndungu-Mkomazi tarmac road project to the contractor, China Communication Construction Company (CCCC), Ulega highlighted the project’s transformative potential.
He noted that the road would resolve long-standing transportation challenges, while boosting agriculture, trade, and tourism.
“President Samia has allocated over TZS 59 billion for this road project to economically empower the people. This initiative should increase the production of rice, ginger, and bananas while enhancing trade between Same, Korogwe, and the regions of Tanga, Coast, and Dar es Salaam,” said Ulega.
He instructed TANROADS to ensure the road is built to the highest quality standards and on schedule.
“President Samia Suluhu Hassan sent me to Same to ensure this road is constructed, so you can expand your farming of ginger and rice because she knows you are hardworking people,” he said.
Ulega expressed confidence that the road’s completion would significantly improve the economic activities of Same and Korogwe residents.
He urged regional and district leaders to mobilize young people to seize opportunities in construction and related sectors.
Kilimanjaro Regional Commissioner Nurdin Babu reiterated the road’s importance, noting that it would simplify transportation and unlock economic opportunities for the densely populated areas of Same District.
“This road will improve lives and create numerous opportunities for economic growth in this region,” he said.
Anne Kilango Malecela, the Member of Parliament for Same East, spoke emotionally about the project’s significance for the community.
“The people of Same are shedding tears of joy. The biggest challenge we face has been the lack of good roads, and this project is a massive breakthrough for our lives,” she said.
Kilango highlighted Same’s role as Tanzania’s leading ginger producer, accounting for 72% of the country’s output.
“This road will ease transportation, improve market access, and allow residents to sell their produce more efficiently. President Samia Suluhu Hassan is writing history by liberating Same through this tarmac road, which will also boost the production of ginger, bananas, fruits, and rice,” she added.
Eng. Mohamed Besta, the TANROADS Chief Executive Officer, explained the strategic importance of the Ndungu-Mkomazi road.
It is part of the 100.5-kilometer Same-Kisiwani-Mkomazi route, which connects the Kilimanjaro and Tanga regions.
With 96.5 kilometers in Kilimanjaro and 4 kilometers in Tanga, the road is expected to enhance agricultural, fishing, trade, and tourism activities.
“This is a key infrastructure project that will benefit farming communities and promote tourism at Mkomazi National Park and the Pare Mountains,” he said.
The road project reflects the government’s commitment to empowering communities through strategic investments in infrastructure. By prioritizing local youth and ensuring excellence in implementation, it offers a path to economic progress and sustainable development for Same and beyond.