Transport Minister Prof. Makame Mbarawa has urged the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) and the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) to accelerate work on Msalato International Airport in Dodoma, aiming for the facility to be fully operational by May this year.
Speaking after inspecting the ongoing project, Prof. Mbarawa praised the progress achieved so far.
“The passenger terminal is 66.6% complete. The air traffic control tower, weather monitoring center, and firefighting facilities are advancing well. The runway is nearly finished, with work at about 96%,” he said, noting that several aircraft had already landed during President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s inauguration.
He stressed the importance of closely supervising the contractor to ensure work is completed on budget and that the passenger terminal finishes meet the highest standards.
The remaining work includes delivery of firefighting vehicles and completion of the passenger terminal.
“By the end of May, Msalato Airport will be ready for operations, benefiting Dodoma residents and the country at large,” he added.
TANROADS Dodoma Regional Manager Eng. Zuhura Amani assured that the agency is fully committed to overseeing the contractor to ensure timely completion.
Meanwhile, Msalato Airport Director Clemence Mbaruku confirmed that 170 staff have already relocated to Dodoma to begin operations once the airport opens. The project is valued at over TZS 370 billion.