By Alfred ZachariaResidents of Kiteto District in Manyara Region have expressed their gratitude to the government for implementing a road and bridge infrastructure project that has significantly improved their lives and economic prospects.
Previously, the lack of proper infrastructure posed serious challenges, particularly in transportation.
Jafari Hassan, a motorcyclist from Mbeli Village, shared how the construction of a stone bridge has transformed his work and eased the burden of transporting goods and people, especially pregnant women needing to access clinics.
Similarly, Bakari Kilama from Matui Town highlighted how the new roads have replaced rugged paths, making it easier to transport crops to markets and boosting local livelihoods.
Siraji Ally, another Matui resident, noted how the improved infrastructure has enhanced school attendance, as children can now access their schools without difficulties caused by waterlogging.
He emphasized that roads are critical for economic growth, as they facilitate the movement of agricultural produce like maize, sunflower, groundnuts, and pigeon peas to external markets, increasing trade activities in the area.
According to Engineer Edwin Magiri, the TARURA Manager for Kiteto District, the agency manages a road network of 1,291.137 kilometers, including gravel, tarmac, and earth roads.
Under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the government has significantly increased the budget for road projects in Kiteto, allocating TZS 2.8 billion for the 2024/2025 fiscal year compared to TZS 1.3 billion in previous years.
This funding has enabled the construction of over 18 stone bridges and improved road accessibility in the district from 11% to 19%. Engineer Magiri commended the government for this support and emphasized the cost-effectiveness of using stone technology for bridges.
He also called on residents to take responsibility for maintaining the infrastructure to ensure its longevity and continued benefits.
