The government has acted decisively to safeguard taxpayers’ money, with Minister for Works, Abdallah Ulega, ordering the arrest of contractors who have failed to deliver on crucial road construction projects in Dodoma Region.
Minister Ulega said the move targets China First Highway Engineering Co. Ltd., which is responsible for the second phase of the Ntyuka–Mvumi Hospital–Kikombo road (53 km).
Despite receiving 10 percent of the project payment TZS 9.68 billion the company has completed only two percent of the work.
“Contractors who take public funds but fail to perform will no longer be tolerated. Government funds are meant to benefit citizens. We will honor contractors who meet their obligations, but those who do not will face strict legal action. The work must continue,” Ulega said.
Efforts by the ministry to summon company officials to Tanzania to explain the delays have so far failed.
The minister has now instructed the Police and the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) to detain and question the contractor for failing to achieve the expected 13 percent project progress.
Minister Ulega also vowed to monitor other projects handled by the same contractor and ordered Deputy Permanent Secretary Dr. Charles Msonde to ensure all ongoing projects are delivered on schedule and according to contract standards.
In addition, he called on CHICO the contractor building the Ntyuka–Mvumi–Makulu (8.6 km) and Kikombo–Chololo–Mapinduzi (16.4 km) sections to speed up bridge construction before the upcoming rainy season.
BCEG, responsible for the passenger terminal at Msalato International Airport, was also ordered to increase the pace of construction, with no extension of deadlines expected.
Dr. Msonde assured the minister that all instructions will be acted upon promptly to resolve delays and ensure smooth progress.
TANROADS Dodoma Regional Manager, Engineer Zuhura Amani, emphasized that all contractors will be closely monitored to guarantee accountability.
The Ntyuka–Mvumi–Kikombo road, covering 76 km, is fully funded by the government. The project is part of a broader plan to connect Dodoma City to surrounding communities, reduce traffic congestion, and promote economic growth, ensuring citizens benefit directly from improved infrastructure.