Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) presidential candidate, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, has pledged to invest heavily in infrastructure projects in Arusha Region, promising to expand road networks and upgrade airports to stimulate economic growth and strengthen tourism in the northern circuit.
Addressing a campaign rally at Mnadani Grounds in Karatu on Friday, Dr. Samia said the government has finalized the design for the 24-kilometre Engaruka–Ngaresero road and is preparing to announce tenders for its construction.
She also revealed that procurement plans are underway for the 17-kilometre Selela–Engaruka road, which will link soda ash operations and enhance tourism around Lake Natron in Monduli District.
She pledged to construct an 88-kilometre road from Ngorongoro Gate to Serengeti, which will be built in three phases with a hard-layer standard.
The first phase, estimated to cost Sh70 billion, is expected to commence during the current financial year.
Dr. Samia further promised to address local needs, including 10 kilometres of access roads to tourist hotels in Karatu, and the installation of streetlights from Mto wa Mbu through Karatu town to Ngorongoro Gate.
As part of plans to boost tourism, Dr. Samia assured residents that her administration would rehabilitate and expand Lake Manyara Airport in Karatu and Waso Airport in Ngorongoro.
She said Sh88.5 billion has been allocated to modernise Lake Manyara Airport, including extending its runway and building a new passenger terminal capable of handling 150 travellers at once.
A tarmac access road will also be constructed to improve transport for tourists using the facility.
The CCM candidate also pledged to prioritise Arusha and the entire northern zone, saying the region had not received sufficient attention from the ruling party in the past.
“In the past, the northern zone was not properly prioritised by the ruling party. But since engaging with local leaders and citizens during my visit to Arusha, I am convinced of the need to restore this region’s status,” she said.
She emphasised that her government would enhance infrastructure, investment and tourism, ensuring Arusha once again serves as a model of development for the nation.