Residents of Kigoma Ujiji Municipality are beginning to enjoy the benefits of the Tanzania Cities Transforming Infrastructure and Competitiveness (TACTIC) project, a major infrastructure initiative implemented by the Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) with concessional financing from the World Bank.
Municipal Executive Director Kisena Mabuba said the project is transforming the municipality through the construction of stormwater drainage systems, bridges, markets, and roads, all designed to boost economic activity and ease transport challenges.
“During the rainy season, residents previously suffered as floodwaters entered their homes. Through TACTIC, drains have been built to channel water directly into the lake, ending this long-standing problem,” said Mabuba.
He added that the project will deliver 9.5 kilometers of tarmac roads connecting six wards, along with street lighting to improve both safety and the city’s aesthetic appeal.
Municipal TACTIC Project Coordinator, Engineer Julius Samwel, confirmed that all project components have started and are progressing at various stages of implementation.
Residents have welcomed the changes. Mariam Athumani, a local resident, said the new drainage systems have eliminated property damage caused by flooding.
For Hussein Hamis, the construction of Mwanga Market promises to be a game-changer for the local economy.
“Once complete, this market will attract traders from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and beyond, creating more business opportunities,” he said.
At Katonga Fish Market, traders commended the government for investing in modern facilities that will allow them to conduct business more efficiently and expand their customer base.
With improved infrastructure, Kigoma Ujiji is poised to strengthen its role as a growing economic hub for western Tanzania and the wider Great Lakes region.