President Samia Suluhu Hassan has approved more than Sh50 billion for the construction of the 27-kilometre Ikwiriri–Mkongo road in Rufiji District, Coast Region, marking a major investment in transport infrastructure aimed at stimulating economic development and improving rural accessibility.
The announcement was made by Minister for Works, Abdallah Ulega, during a community engagement held on June 23, 2025, in the wards of Mkongo and Ikwiriri.
The project, which will be executed to tarmac standard, also includes the installation of 180 modern streetlights.
“President Samia has already approved funding exceeding Sh50 billion for the construction of this key road and the installation of streetlights, ensuring safe and efficient transport for the people of Rufiji,” said Ulega.
He added that the government’s broader infrastructure plan for the area includes the construction of a new road connecting Chalinze–Mloka–Mkongo, along with a modern bridge that will link Mkongo to Utete, offering a lifeline for communities cut off during rainy seasons.
In a further boost to regional integration, President Samia has also greenlighted a four-lane highway from Ikwiriri to Mkuranga, a major step toward decongesting traffic and enhancing the transport corridor between the Coast and Dar es Salaam regions.
Minister of State in the President’s Office for Regional Administration and Local Government, Mohamed Mchengerwa who is also MP for Rufiji commended the President’s bold infrastructure agenda, noting that the investment will significantly improve the lives of residents who have long struggled with poor road conditions.
“Many parts of Rufiji become impassable during floods, severely affecting access to markets, healthcare and education. These new roads will open up our region and unlock economic opportunities,” Mchengerwa said.
To show their support, members of the ruling party’s women’s wing, UWT, in Rufiji held a peaceful march urging the community to back President Samia’s leadership and development initiatives.
During the event, they presented a certificate of appreciation to Minister Mchengerwa in recognition of his contributions to local development.
As part of his working tour, Mchengerwa inspected several key public projects including the Mkongo Health Centre, the newly constructed Mchengerwa Market, and Mkongo Secondary School.
He issued instructions to local authorities to improve infrastructure and enhance service delivery in the health and education sectors.
The Ikwiriri–Mkongo road is expected to not only ease transport challenges but also drive inclusive growth in one of the country’s ecologically and economically significant regions.
