The Minister for Works, Abdallah Ulega, has called on the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) and the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) to work in close coordination and jointly oversee the consulting engineer managing the construction of the passenger terminal at Msalato International Airport. The directive aims to ensure that the project is delivered on time and to the highest standards of quality.
Minister Ulega emphasized the need for effective communication and strong collaboration between the two institutions, noting that the project is of national importance and eagerly awaited by Tanzanians.
He affirmed his personal commitment alongside the Dodoma Regional Commissioner, Rosemary Senyamule to regularly monitor the progress of the project.
Speaking during his inspection tour in Dodoma, Minister Ulega revealed that the project has reached 53.9% completion.
He underscored its strategic importance, saying it is expected to drive economic growth in the region and position Dodoma as a key hub for trade and investment.
“This is a modern terminal building, but the contractor is behind schedule,” Ulega stated. “I have instructed the contractors Beijing Construction Engineering Group and Hebei Construction Group Corporation (BCEG) to operate day and night and to increase their workforce to expedite progress.”
The Minister further warned that the government will not grant extensions to the contractor should they fail to complete the work within the agreed timeline. He stressed that the contractor would be held financially accountable for any delays.
“We have made it clear across all government projects: if a contractor delays a project despite availability of funds, they must pay compensation,” he said firmly.
Minister Ulega also expressed satisfaction with the progress of the airport runway, which is now 89% complete.
He commended TANROADS and the contractor, Sinohydro, for their commendable performance in delivering that component of the project.
On her part, Dodoma Regional Commissioner Rosemary Senyamule praised President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan and the Sixth Phase Government for continuing to unlock the region’s potential through strategic investments.
She noted that the airport will create significant social and economic opportunities for both Dodoma residents and the nation at large.
Meanwhile, the Director General of the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA), Mr. Abdul Mombokaleo, announced that trial operations for aircraft takeoffs and landings are expected to begin by June 2025.
