The Member of Parliament for Mbeya Rural,Oran Njeza, has underscored that the true essence of leadership lies in championing development and unlocking economic opportunities for citizens, particularly in underserved rural areas.
During his official tour of Ilembo and Santilya wards on June 18, 2025, Njeza inspected the ongoing construction of the Ilembo–Sapanda road a key infrastructure project valued at over Sh1 billion.
The MP emphasized that leaders must remain focused on results, and should not be swayed by detractors who undermine efforts to improve lives at the grassroots.
"A leader’s responsibility is to serve the people and create avenues for economic transformation. Those who ridicule development initiatives are enemies of progress," he said.
The road, which is being implemented under the Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA), forms part of a broader government strategy to enhance rural mobility and connect agricultural communities to markets and essential services.
Speaking on behalf of TARURA's Mbeya District Manager, district engineer Geofrey Magila said the current project scope covers a 5.2-kilometre stretch from Ilembo to Mbagala and includes the construction of the Iwonde Bridge. He confirmed that work commenced in June and is scheduled for completion in November this year.
“Community members have requested that the road be upgraded to gravel standard to ensure year-round accessibility,” said Eng. Magila.
In a parallel effort to strengthen education infrastructure, Njeza contributed Sh3 million to support the completion of two classrooms at Mwakasita Primary School in Ilembo Ward. The classrooms, now in their final stages, are being co-funded by the Mbeya District Council.
Acting District Education Officer for Primary and Secondary Education, Mr. Fabian Mtisi, commended the MP’s unwavering support for the education sector. He noted that the council remains committed to investing in learning environments across the constituency.
“We appreciate the MP’s efforts in championing development, especially in education. The council has continued to allocate funds to school projects in villages such as Mwakasita and across Ilembo Ward,” Mtisi said.
The visit by Njeza aligns with broader national goals of ensuring inclusive development and improving public service delivery in rural Tanzania.