The Government of Tanzania has officially upgraded Kibaha from a town council to a municipal council, in a move aimed at accelerating urban development and improving public service delivery in the fast-growing coastal city.
The decision, which took effect on 20 June 2025, is part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen local governance structures and ensure that rapidly expanding urban centres are equipped with the resources and administrative capacity to meet the needs of their populations.
The announcement was met with widespread optimism among residents of Kibaha, located in the Coast Region, who hope to benefit from the anticipated improvements in infrastructure, social services, and economic opportunities.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting, Dr Rogers Shemwelekwa, the Director of the newly established Kibaha Municipal Council, urged citizens and development partners to embrace the new status and align with the area’s growth trajectory.
“The elevation of Kibaha to a municipality reflects the collective efforts of local leaders and citizens. It marks the beginning of a new chapter one defined by better infrastructure, quality services, and increased investment and employment,” Dr Shemwelekwa said.
As a municipality, Kibaha is now eligible for a larger budget allocation from the central government.
This funding will support the expansion and rehabilitation of roads, construction of bus terminals and drainage systems, as well as the installation of streetlights critical for improving transport, trade, and safety.
Key public services in health, education, and sanitation are also expected to receive a boost. Authorities plan to equip schools and health centres with modern infrastructure and staffing, with the aim of enhancing service quality for residents.
The municipality status is also projected to attract both domestic and international investment, spurring the development of new industries, retail outlets, hospitality services, and other commercial enterprises.
Kibaha’s elevation is further expected to generate employment, particularly for youth and women, through development projects in sectors such as construction, trade, and logistics.
Dr Shemwelekwa noted that the new governance framework would promote greater public participation and accountability.
Citizens will be more involved in decision-making through formal local committees, while leaders will be held to higher performance standards.
“This transition is not just administrative it’s transformative. We are building a city that works for everyone,” he added.
Local resident Mzee Mfinanga, from the Njuweni area, welcomed the development with hope.
“This feels like the dawn of a new era. We expect to see real improvements in roads, healthcare, and schools. It’s a big step forward for Kibaha.”
The government has underscored that the upgrade aligns with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s national development vision centred on practical, inclusive progress—and called on citizens to protect and build upon the gains.
With this milestone, Kibaha joins a growing list of municipalities being positioned as engines of economic transformation in Tanzania’s march towards middle-income status.