Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa arrived this morning, April 16, 2025, in the Somanga area of Lindi Region to assess the extent of damage on the Dar es Salaam–Lindi highway, which has been severely affected by ongoing heavy rains pounding several parts of the country.
His visit follows increasing concerns from travelers and transporters over disrupted movement along the vital highway, which serves as the main route connecting the southern regions to the commercial capital, Dar es Salaam.
The rains have caused flooding, road erosion, and in some sections, complete washouts, making transportation difficult and dangerous.
The Prime Minister was accompanied by the Minister of Defence and National Service, Dr. Stergomena Tax, and the Minister of Works, Abdallah Ulega.
Together, the leaders spoke to engineers, contractors, and local government officials, seeking immediate and long-term solutions to restore normalcy.
Speaking during the inspection, Mr. Majaliwa emphasized the importance of the highway to economic activities and regional trade.
“This road is a lifeline for the southern regions. We must move quickly to ensure emergency repairs are done and long-term infrastructure solutions are implemented,” he said.
The government has already mobilized emergency response teams, including the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS), to assess the full scale of the damage and begin temporary repairs to restore transport.
Meanwhile, local communities have been urged to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel until the affected areas are secured. Relief efforts are underway to support those displaced or affected by the floods in the surrounding areas.
The Prime Minister’s visit is part of a broader government effort to respond swiftly to weather-related disasters, especially in light of forecasts predicting continued rainfall in the coming days.
Authorities have reassured the public of their commitment to restoring infrastructure and ensuring the safety of road users.
The Dar es Salaam–Lindi highway is a key artery for the movement of goods and people between the southern corridor and other parts of Tanzania, playing a crucial role in supporting agriculture, trade, and tourism in the region.
