The Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) has kicked off the construction of 42 kilometres of paved roads in Kigamboni Municipality under the second phase of the Dar es Salaam Metropolitan Development Project (DMDP II), a major infrastructure upgrade set to transform mobility in one of the city’s rapidly growing districts.
Speaking during a site visit, TARURA Kigamboni District Manager, Engineer Ismail Mafita, said three contractors are currently on the ground working on 30 kilometres, while the procurement process for the remaining 10.2 kilometres is at an advanced stage.
“Tenders will be announced by the end of June. Within the next one or two months, construction on the remaining stretch will begin,” said Eng. Mafita, noting that the full 42km are expected to be completed between February and March next year.
The DMDP II project is already delivering tangible results, with previously impassable roads now under rehabilitation. The entire initiative is valued at Sh100 billion, of which Sh78 billion has been allocated to the 30 kilometres currently under construction.
“This is a significant investment, and once the work is complete, it will greatly improve transport, accessibility, and the overall outlook of Kigamboni,” Eng. Mafita said.
The scope of works includes tarmac surfacing, pedestrian walkways, bus bays, street lighting, and stormwater drainage.
Eng. Mafita appealed for public cooperation during the construction phase, assuring residents that the temporary inconveniences will soon give way to cleaner, safer and more attractive neighbourhoods.
In addition to DMDP II, the district has received Sh5 billion for other road projects, including the tarmacking of 0.62 kilometres around Kivukoni Primary School and Rombo Bar, as well as the ongoing completion of 500 metres along the main road to Nyerere Bridge critical for easing congestion for commuters heading to Kivukoni.
Residents have expressed optimism about the improvements. “Previously, when it rained, our motorcycles would break down because of the flooded roads. Now we can work more easily,” said Mr. Stephano James from Salanga.
Mr. Ally Yusuph from Vijibweni said dusty, muddy roads had long been a headache. “Once paved, life will change here. But it’s important that the contractor sticks to timelines.”
Mr. Farid Yusuph of Feri thanked the government and urged the installation of road signage and speed bumps.
He also called on fellow residents to take ownership of the new infrastructure by keeping drains clean and avoiding vandalism.
