The government is constructing a 60-metre-long and 11.6-metre-wide bridge at Nzali-Chilonwa in Chamwino District, Dodoma, to provide a lasting solution for thousands of road users along the Chamwino-Dabalo-Itiso route.
According to the Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanroads) Dodoma regional manager, Eng. Zuhura Amani, the project has reached 62.8 percent completion.
It is expected to transform transportation in the area by ensuring smooth traffic flow and improved safety.
“This bridge will be a game-changer for the community because it will accommodate two-way traffic, pedestrian walkways, and lighting to enhance security at night,” Eng. Zuhura said during a recent site visit.
She noted that the construction is part of emergency infrastructure projects launched following the El Niño rains experienced between November 2023 and May 2024, which caused widespread destruction of road networks across Dodoma.
“The Nzali-Chilonwa area was among the most affected. The old bridge was too small, and during heavy rains, flooding often cut off transport for hours, causing significant inconvenience to residents and traders,” she explained.
The project is being implemented by Chinese contractor CHICO at a cost of Sh14.5 billion and is supervised by Tanroads’ TECU unit. Completion is scheduled for October 2025.
Eng. Zuhura expressed appreciation to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for allocating funds to improve road and bridge infrastructure nationwide.
TECU consultant engineer Leonard Mwambene said the project has already created employment opportunities for 106 local workers and is expected to stimulate economic growth once operational.
For Nzali residents, the new bridge marks the end of years of frustration. “During the rainy season, we sometimes waited two to three hours for floodwaters to subside before crossing. This new bridge will allow vehicles to pass even during heavy rains,” said a local resident.