Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba on December 19, 2025 inspected the progress of bridge construction and rehabilitation works along the Marendego–Nangurukuru–Lindi–Mingoyo trunk road, a key transport corridor in Lindi Region.
The inspection focused on bridges damaged during the El Niño rains and Cyclone Hidaya, disruptions that cut off communities and exposed long-standing infrastructure vulnerabilities in the area.
The project includes the construction of emergency bridges under the Contingent Emergency Response Component (CERC) to restore connectivity and improve resilience.
Addressing residents of Somanga, Dr Nchemba said the government, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, is prioritising strategic infrastructure projects as a practical response to development challenges facing citizens, particularly in areas prone to climate-related shocks.
He noted that reliable road and bridge infrastructure is central to reducing poverty by improving access to markets, social services and economic opportunities.
The Prime Minister commended the Ministry of Works, TANROADS and contractors involved in the project for the pace and quality of implementation.
He also acknowledged the role of the police in coordinating security and ensuring public safety during the period when infrastructure damage disrupted transport and daily activities.
Dr Nchemba expressed satisfaction with the progress of the emergency bridge works in Lindi, which have reached more than 90 percent completion.
He said assurances from the Ministry of Works indicate that the bridges will be fully operational before the next rainy season, allowing uninterrupted movement even during heavy rains.
Minister for Works, Abdallah Ulega said the completion of the Somanga Mtama Bridge (M60) will be accompanied by the installation of street lighting to enhance safety and support commercial activities throughout the day and night.
He added that the project reflects the government’s broader focus on building climate-resilient infrastructure to sustain economic activity and regional integration.
The Marendego–Nangurukuru–Lindi–Mingoyo road is a critical link for trade and transport in southern Tanzania, and the near completion of the bridges is expected to significantly improve mobility, business operations and access to essential services in the region.