Pangani Bridge nears completion boosting coastal transport and trade

By The Respondents Reporter

The construction of the Pangani Bridge, a landmark infrastructure project set to become Tanzania’s sixth longest bridge, is moving steadily toward completion, with progress now at 74.3 percent. 

The 525-meter bridge, along with 25 kilometers of connecting and bypass roads, is expected to redefine transport and trade along Tanzania’s northern coast once complete.

The project is part of the government’s broader plan to strengthen connectivity along the East African Coastal Corridor, linking Malindi–Mombasa–Lunga Lunga/Horohoro–Tanga–Pangani–Bagamoyo (Makurunge) a 454-kilometer route that supports the movement of goods, people, and services across the region.

According to Tanga Regional TANROADS Manager, Engineer Msama Msama, the bridge represents more than a physical link between two sides of the Pangani River it’s a bridge to opportunity.

“This project is transforming access along the coast. It will cut travel time, open new trade routes, and boost social and economic interaction,” he said during a site inspection on October 14, 2025.

Eng. Msama said significant milestones have already been achieved, including the construction of two abutments and eight central piers. So far, TZS 45.6 billion has been disbursed to the contractor, who remains on schedule to complete the work.

He explained that once operational, the Pangani Bridge will serve as a crucial link between the ports of Dar es Salaam, Tanga, and Mombasa, enhancing Tanzania’s competitiveness in the regional logistics chain and strengthening the Blue Economy. 

“The bridge will ease movement for traders and travelers, while improving access to tourist destinations and essential services,” he added.

The first phase of the Tanga–Pangani road project, covering 50 kilometers, is fully financed by the Government of Tanzania through the Ministry of Works and implemented by TANROADS.

 The Chinese construction company CHICO has completed 75 percent of the work. The second phase, which includes the Pangani Bridge and its 25.6-kilometer connecting roads, is co-financed by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the government. 

The third phase, the 95.2-kilometer Tungamaa–Mkwaja–Mkange road, has reached 53 percent completion and is valued at TZS 94.54 billion.

Eng. Msama noted that the project will directly benefit communities by improving the transportation of agricultural produce such as cassava, coconuts, and seaweed, helping farmers and traders access wider markets. 

“This infrastructure is not only an investment in transport it’s an investment in livelihoods,” he said.

In addition to the Pangani Bridge project, TANROADS Tanga is also implementing emergency infrastructure works worth TZS 11.27 billion to repair roads and bridges damaged by El Niño rains and Cyclone Hidaya. 

The works include the Msangazi Bridge on the Amani–Muheza road, the Bwiko Box Culvert along the Same–Segera road, and the Sagasa Bridge on the Kwaluguru–Kiberashi route.

Eng. Msama reaffirmed TANROADS’ commitment to delivering high-quality, durable infrastructure on schedule.

 “The Pangani Bridge will stand as a symbol of progress and connection bridging not just the Pangani River, but communities, regions, and opportunities across Tanzania’s coastline,” he said.