The J.P Magufuli Bridge at Kigongo Busisi, which is 3 kilometers long, will officially open for use on April 30, 2025, according to the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, Dr. Charles Msonde.
He also announced that by April 10, vehicles will start using one side of the bridge, as the construction is now 97% complete.
This bridge connects the Usagara-Sengerema-Geita Highway, which is 90 kilometers long. The highway is part of the Lake Victoria Corridor, linking Sirari at the Tanzania-Kenya border to Mutukula at the Tanzania-Uganda border.
Right now, people cross the Kigongo Busisi section using three large ferries—MV Mwanza, MV Misungwi, and MV Sengerema. The heavy traffic often causes long waiting times.
"Currently, it takes about two hours for vehicles and passengers to cross. Once the bridge is open, it will take only three to four minutes, making travel much easier and boosting development in Mwanza Region," Dr. Msonde said.
Speaking on March 22, 2025, while inspecting the bridge with the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Investments (PIC), Dr. Msonde confirmed that one fully completed side will be open for use starting April 10.
The bridge is 28.45 meters wide and has two lanes, each 7 meters wide. The construction has cost over TZS 610 billion.
PIC Chairman Augustine Vuma Holle praised the Ministry of Works and TANROADS for their efforts, calling it one of the best-reviewed projects.
"Make sure the remaining 3% is completed on time so that by April 30, people can start using this bridge and avoid long delays," he urged.
He also thanked President Samia Suluhu Hassan, noting that when she took office, the project was only 25% complete. It was started by the late President John Pombe Magufuli and has now reached 97% completion.