Mbeya, Tanzania – The Minister for Works, Abdallah Ulega, has issued a firm 30-day ultimatum to the contractor, CHICO Company Ltd, demanding swift progress on the expansion of the 29-kilometer Nsalaga–Ifisi road into a four-lane highway to help reduce traffic congestion in Mbeya City.
During an inspection visit to the construction site, Minister Ulega expressed dissatisfaction with the project's slow pace, which is currently at 25% completion despite the government already releasing TZS 35 billion to support the works.
“The government has already released TZS 35 billion for this project, but the contractor has not delivered satisfactory progress,” said Ulega.
“I have now instructed the contractor to work day and night, add more machinery and manpower, and ensure that we see significant changes immediately.”
The Minister directed that at least 10 kilometers of tarmac be completed by early June, emphasizing that the pace must reflect the urgency and importance of the project.
“This road is vital for economic activities and easing urban congestion. There is no excuse for such delays,” he added. “I will personally return to inspect the progress.”
Ulega also gave a clear directive to the Mbeya Regional TANROADS Manager to closely supervise CHICO and ensure adherence to the new timeline, while also integrating street lighting infrastructure along the road.
“We are not just building roads, we are building safer, more beautiful cities. The street lights must be part of this project to improve safety and city aesthetics,” he stated.
During the visit, Speaker of the National Assembly and MP for Mbeya Urban, Dr. Tulia Ackson, raised concerns from constituents about the road delays and additional road needs in the city.
“The people of Mbeya have been waiting eagerly for this road to be completed. It will greatly ease traffic and boost economic activities,” said Dr. Tulia.
“I also request the government to consider adding 3.5 kilometers of road from Ifisi to Songwe Airport, and 5 kilometers from Nsalaga to Mlima Nyoka, in the next financial year’s budget.”
In response, Minister Ulega promised to follow up on the request, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving urban road infrastructure across the region.
The Minister also stressed the importance of involving local youth in the construction project.“I have instructed TANROADS to ensure that small-scale work packages are awarded to youth from Mbeya to create job opportunities. This project should benefit the people directly,” Ulega noted.
Meanwhile, Eng. Matari Masige, TANROADS Regional Manager, provided a technical update on the project’s progress.
“The contractor is currently working on G3, G7, and G15 subgrade layers, constructing small and large culverts, and building the Nzovwe Bridge,” Eng. Masige explained.
As the June deadline approaches, all eyes will be on CHICO to deliver visible, measurable progress. The project is expected to greatly enhance mobility, boost economic activities, and improve the quality of life for residents of Mbeya City.
