Mwanza. Over the past four years of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration, the budget for the Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) in Mwanza Region has increased by 300 percent marking a significant investment in improving road infrastructure and urban mobility.
The revelation was made by Mwanza Regional TARURA Manager, Engineer Makori Kisari, during an official inspection visit by the TARURA Audit Committee, which assessed the implementation of road projects across the region.
According to Eng. Kisari, the agency’s budget rose from TSh 8.4 billion in 2021/2022 to TSh 25 billion in 2024/2025, enabling TARURA to service a network of more than 8,000 kilometres across seven districts and eight councils.
The roads are being developed using various standards ranging from tarmac and concrete to stone paving, gravel, and earth surfaces.
“We sincerely appreciate the support from the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. The budget increase has empowered us to improve road access across Mwanza,” said Eng. Kisari.
He added that the agency has successfully executed more than 79 contracts in the previous financial year and has already started the procurement process for 2025/2026 projects—a proactive step aimed at launching works ahead of the rainy season.
One of the key projects currently underway is the construction of a 14-kilometre bypass road from Buhongwa to Igoma, funded under the Tanzania Cities and Urban Upgrading Project (TACTIC). Eng. Kisari said the project is designed to reduce congestion in Mwanza’s central business district.
“This road will act as a strategic diversion for vehicles from Shinyanga, Simiyu, and Mara regions. If the vehicles are not destined for the city centre, they can use the bypass, significantly cutting down traffic jams within the city,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the TARURA Audit Committee, CPA Ally Rashid, said the visit was intended to ensure that projects are being executed according to contract terms and quality standards.
“We’re satisfied that most of the projects inspected are on track. Some have already been completed, while others are nearing final stages,” he said, noting that transparency and value for money remain key priorities.
The sharp rise in funding and the implementation of high-impact road projects reflect the Sixth Phase Government’s broader commitment to infrastructure development particularly in fast-growing regions like Mwanza, where road improvements are crucial for easing transport, attracting investment, and supporting economic activity.
The development aligns with the government’s vision of building modern, well-connected cities that meet the demands of both residents and businesses, while reducing time lost in traffic and improving access to services.