Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba has directed the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) and the Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) to review all projects that have already received advance payments, assessing the progress made and ensuring funds are used appropriately.
“Any project completed for less than the allocated funds is an economic sabotage against our nation. Those responsible will face the law,” the Prime Minister warned while speaking to citizens during an inspection of damaged infrastructure in Songwe, including the Mpemba weighbridge, Mwanzo Tunduma Court, and Machinga Market.
Dr. Mwigulu criticized contractors who mismanage project funds. “A contractor who failed in Mbinga must not get any more work in the country.
Give opportunities to local contractors. We cannot pay someone who then delays projects or diverts money for other purposes,” he said.
He also ordered that all new contracts include a clause requiring payments to be made through accounts in Tanzania. “It is unacceptable for project funds to be sent abroad while our roads remain unfinished. Payments must be made here at home,” he stressed.
The Prime Minister urged local leaders to address citizens’ challenges directly and collaborate with communities to find practical solutions.
He reassured Tanzanians that the government is committed to delivering all promises made by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, including those in the election manifesto and national vision plans.
On staffing in the health and education sectors, Dr. Mwigulu warned against favoritism. “Follow the set criteria. Do not abuse the process to favor friends,” he said.
He also called on citizens, especially in Songwe, to maintain peace and reject manipulation by those who want to cause unrest.
“We benefit first from peace. Let us protect our country; it cannot be run by outsiders or criminal groups,” he added.
Finally, the Prime Minister instructed Deputy Minister of Construction, Engineer Godfrey Kasekenya, to ensure all project payments go through Tanzanian banks and that contractors are properly supervised, guaranteeing that funds are used solely for the intended projects.