The Tanzania Cities Transforming Infrastructure and Competitiveness (TACTIC) Project is improving transport, trade, and livelihoods in Sumbawanga Municipality following major road upgrades and new infrastructure investments.
According to Acting Municipal Director of Sumbawanga, Mr. Nassir Kilusha, the municipality has received TZS 20.36 billion through TACTIC for the construction of a project office, 13.3 kilometres of tarmac roads, stormwater drains, and street lighting. He said the project is now over 80 percent complete.
“Previously, our roads were dusty, muddy, and full of potholes. Floodwaters used to invade people’s homes, causing great inconvenience. But now, with better drainage and street lighting, businesses operate even at night, investment has increased, security is better, and both transport and logistics have expanded. Property values have also risen,” Mr. Kilusha explained.
He added that the municipality is also constructing a central grain market at Kanondo, worth TZS 7.4 billion, which is expected to be completed by December 2025.
The market will include vehicle parking, spaces for agents, grain warehouses, and a food court for small vendors.
The facility is projected to raise the value of local produce and create a new hub for cross-border trade.
On revenues, Mr. Kilusha noted that municipal collections reached TZS 3.4 billion last year, and are projected to increase to TZS 3.9 billion this financial year, an additional TZS 500 million.
He urged residents to protect the new infrastructure so that it serves the community for the long term.
Sumbawanga District TACTIC Coordinator from TARURA, Engineer Emmanuel Kudema, said the project has significantly expanded the road network.
“Before TACTIC, the municipality had 32.89 km of tarmac roads. The project has added 13.03 km, bringing the total to 45.92 km. This has reduced maintenance costs and strengthened connectivity within the municipality,” he said.
Residents are already seeing the benefits. Ms. Nasma Kazumari of Katandala Ward said the street lights have transformed business operations.
“We can now trade late into the night because the streets are safe and clean. In the past, we had dust, mud, and unhygienic surroundings,” she said.
Mr. Baraka Edwin, a rickshaw driver from Mafulala Ward, shared a similar view. “The new roads have shortened travel times and increased passengers. I urge fellow residents not to litter in the drainage systems, because blocked water channels can destroy our roads,” he said.
Ms. Getricia Bomani, who works as a first-aid provider at the Kanondo Market construction site, said the project has given her economic relief.
“This job has helped me support my family. Once completed, the market will raise the value of local produce and open up new opportunities for exports to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia,” she said.
