A TZS 26.15 billion road project has finally ended the long-standing flooding problem in Mtanana, Dodoma, by elevating a six-kilometre stretch that used to trap motorists for hours during heavy rains.
Engineer Zuhura Amani, Dodoma Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) Regional Manager, said the area was notorious for flooding during El-Nino rains, with water from surrounding hills often spilling over bridges and the road itself.
“Besides raising the road, we built seven large culverts of different sizes to handle high water volumes at once, unlike the old ones which were quickly overwhelmed,” he explained.
The project, overseen by TANROADS and executed by local contractor Estim Construction, started on June 13, 2024, and is expected to be completed by November 13, 2025. “This is a major road, and the contractor has put in extra effort, including working overtime,” Engineer Zuhura added.
Work completed so far includes all seven bridges, road elevation, asphalt paving, and installation of sub-layers. Road markings and streetlights are planned to improve safety for drivers and pedestrians.
Engineer Mussa Mwaipopo, representing Estim Construction, thanked the government and TANROADS for smooth cooperation, saying the project faced no operational challenges and payments were made on time.
Local resident Pascal Robert recalled how motorists sometimes waited more than 20 hours for floodwaters to subside before continuing their journey to Kibaigwa.
The upgraded road is set to improve travel safety and connectivity in Dodoma, marking a major milestone in the region’s infrastructure development.
