Engineers from government ministries and institutions handling transport infrastructure projects are undergoing a five-day training in Arusha to strengthen project management skills and reduce costs and delays.
Organized by the Tanzania Roads Association (TARA), the training brings together experts from Tanzania and Zambia to equip participants with practical knowledge on efficient project execution.
Speaking at the opening, Engineer Florian Kabaka, Chairperson of the Advisory Board at the Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA), noted persistent gaps in contract management that have led to losses for the government.
“Many contracts face issues such as cost overruns, unplanned changes, or disputes arising from poorly defined work standards. These challenges often result in financial losses for the government,” Engineer Kabaka said.
He added that the training will enable engineers to manage projects effectively from design to completion and advised that inexperienced supervisors work under experienced mentors to avoid costly mistakes.
Engineer Pharles Ngeleja of TARURA highlighted the importance of developing transport infrastructure, particularly in rural areas.
Since TARURA’s establishment in 2017, the agency has built 453 stone bridges, opening up rural communities and saving significant public funds.
“Improved access allows residents to reach social services and transport their produce efficiently, boosting local economic growth,” he said.
The training is attended by engineers from OR-TAMISEMI, the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Construction, Road Fund, TARURA, and TANROADS.