The Tanzania Cities Development Project (TACTIC) is investing TZS 51 billion in Mbeya City to modernize its infrastructure, improve transport, and boost local commerce.
The project, funded through a concessional World Bank loan, targets roads, markets, and bus terminals across the city.
Mbeya City TACTIC Project Coordinator, Engineer Yunus Nsegobya, said the initiative includes the construction of 12.3 km of paved roads, 6.41 km of stormwater drains, street lighting, and a project management office at a cost of TZS 21 billion. Implementation has reached 70 percent.
“Other key projects include a central bus terminal at the Old Airport area and the Sokomatola main market, costing TZS 30 billion. Once completed, these projects are expected to raise city revenue from TZS 24 billion to between TZS 35 billion and 40 billion,” Engineer Nsegobya explained.
He praised the government for responding to citizens’ calls to improve infrastructure, noting that the developments have increased property values and enhanced transport and logistics services. He urged residents to safeguard the infrastructure to ensure its longevity.
Engineer Boniface Kasambo, TARURA Mbeya District Manager, highlighted completed roads including Uyole-Itezi (1.8 km), Ilomba-Machinjioni (3.8 km), Kabwe-Block T (1.2 km), Iziwa (2 km), and Kalobe (3.8 km), alongside the stormwater drains.
These improvements have eased farmers’ access to markets and facilitated the smooth transport of goods.
Local resident Victor Mlay of VETA-Machinjioni commended the government for raising land values, promoting business, and improving transport.
He noted that the installation of streetlights will make the city more attractive and allow businesses to operate safely at night.
Uyole Secondary School teacher Ezekia Gwenino recalled that roads were once muddy, potholed, and flooded, causing travel challenges.
“Today, students and teachers reach school on time. Residents should maintain the drains by avoiding littering to keep them functional for years,” he urged.
Trader Zena Nassor from Sokomatola Market expressed gratitude for the new market construction, saying it will attract more customers and create better conditions for business.
With these developments, Mbeya City is on track to become a more vibrant, economically productive, and socially inclusive urban center.