Tanzania’s Minister of Finance, Dr. Mwigulu Lameck Nchemba (MP), has extended his gratitude to Italy for its financial backing in constructing the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).
The Italian government provided a loan guarantee for the first and second phases of the railway, spanning from Dar es Salaam through Morogoro, Dodoma, to Makutupora in Singida.
These sections are now complete, and passenger train services have commenced between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma.
Dr. Nchemba expressed his appreciation during a meeting in Rome, Italy, with Ms. Alessandra Ricci, the Chief Executive Officer of the Italian Export Credit Agency (SACE).
‘Thanks to Italy’s support, Tanzania has achieved a major breakthrough in its transportation sector. The launch of SGR passenger services in July 2024 has significantly reduced travel time between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma from eight hours to approximately three hours,’ he stated.
He further acknowledged SACE’s commitment to funding the railway extension from Dodoma to Isaka, underscoring the importance of sustained collaboration in enhancing the country’s infrastructure.
Dr. Nchemba also took the opportunity to invite Italian investors to explore Tanzania’s economic potential, particularly in railway infrastructure management and industrial development.
‘Tanzania presents an attractive investment environment. Establishing industries will not only create employment opportunities but also drive economic growth for both nations,’ he emphasized.
Highlighting Tanzania’s strategic advantage, he noted, ‘Our country is uniquely positioned, bordering six landlocked nations that depend on the Dar es Salaam Port. This makes Tanzania an ideal hub for trade and logistics, offering investors a secure and promising market.’
In response, SACE CEO Ms. Alessandra Ricci reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with Tanzania.
‘Italy has identified Tanzania as one of 14 African nations set to benefit from financial assistance under our "Piano Mattei" partnership program,’ she stated.
Ms. Ricci further assured Dr. Nchemba that SACE remains ready to support the financing of the third and fourth phases of the SGR project, which will extend from Makutupora through Tabora to Isaka.
‘This project is critical in boosting trade across East Africa and within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and we are eager to continue our collaboration,’ she affirmed.”
