The Minister for Works, Abdallah Ulega, has vowed to take stern disciplinary measures against engineers from the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) for negligence that led to delays in restoring the Dar es Salaam–Lindi highway at Somanga–Mtama in Lindi Region.
“I inspected the site and saw firsthand how the work is progressing. Frankly, things are not being done properly. There has been negligence,” said Ulega.
“I will take serious action so that in future, when emergencies like this occur, they are handled with the urgency they deserve.”
The minister made the remarks during his visit to Lindi Region, where he assessed the ongoing efforts to restore road connectivity following the disruption on April 6, 2025.
He expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of work and directed TANROADS officials to remain at the site until the road is fully reopened.
“I’ve instructed the team not to leave the area until the road is passable again,” he added.
Ulega extended condolences to residents of southern regions and Dar es Salaam who were affected by the disruption and assured them that restoration efforts were being expedited.
“I want to assure the public that the team on the ground is working around the clock to ensure travelers can resume their journeys as soon as possible,” he said.
The minister also acknowledged the quick initial response by the TANROADS Lindi team but emphasized the need for greater efficiency.
“I commend their emergency response, but we must now move faster. I’ve directed the deployment of up to 100 stone-carrying trucks to speed up the restoration process,” he noted.
While speaking with residents of Somanga, Ulega highlighted government efforts to improve infrastructure in the region.
“President Samia Suluhu Hassan has approved over TSh130 billion for the construction of damaged bridges in Lindi. Five bridges are currently under construction at various stages,” he revealed.
He further stated that the government is aware of the highway’s importance and will prioritize repairs during the 2025/2026 financial year.
“We will rehabilitate and patch potholes in critical areas such as Marendego, Somanga, Njia Nne, Matandu, and Ikwiriri–Nyamwage–Chumbi to ease transportation of people and goods,” said the minister.
Additionally, Ulega announced plans to expand key roads to reduce traffic congestion. “We are set to begin constructing a four-lane road from Kongowe to Mbagala Rangi Tatu. The contractor has already been secured. A similar expansion will extend from Kongowe to Mkuranga,” he said.
