Farmers in Songea are now enjoying smoother, safer, and more efficient transport thanks to the government’s investment of TZS 900 million in road and bridge projects across the district.
The funds were used to construct the Lumecha River bridge, a 4-kilometre road in Mkongotema Ward, and the Liweta River bridge in Mpandangindo Ward.
Engineer Bakari John, Manager of the Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) in Songea, said the projects are part of the RISE program, which aims to remove bottlenecks in rural transport and boost local economic activity.
“Farmers in Mkongotema and Mpandangindo, who grow cash crops like ginger, maize, and avocado, used to face serious challenges getting their produce to market,” he explained.
“Without proper roads, transportation costs were high, and farmers’ profits suffered. The new bridges and roads have changed everything, allowing produce to reach markets faster and safely.”he added
Over the past four years of the Sixth Phase Government, Songea District has opened 192 kilometres of new roads, most of which lead directly to farming areas.
Six major bridges over 25 metres long, along with more than ten smaller bridges, have been completed, easing the movement of goods and people alike.
“Roads and bridges are more than just infrastructure,” Engineer Bakari emphasized. “They are lifelines for communities, opening up economic opportunities and improving social services. But it is important to maintain them, as the government invests heavily to build them.”
Local residents have expressed their gratitude. Edsnon Lunji, a farmer from Madaba-Mkongotema, recalled the hardships of the past.
“We had no proper roads; people walked long distances, and vehicles had to take long detours, which was very expensive. Now, thanks to the government, transporting our crops is easier and faster.”he added
Baitan Nyoni, a resident of Mkongotema, described the new road as a “shortcut” that allows farmers to make multiple trips a day at lower cost.
“Before, we had to use wooden ferries, and many people risked their lives crossing rivers. Today, our produce moves safely, and our income has improved,” he said.
The new road infrastructure in Songea not only improves transport but also promises to boost agricultural production, enhance trade, and improve the livelihoods of thousands of farmers in the region.