Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba today led a high-level meeting on the construction of expressways under public-private partnerships (PPP), aiming to accelerate the development of key road networks across Tanzania.
The session, held at the Prime Minister’s Office conference hall, brought together senior government officials and PPP experts to map out strategies for faster, cost-effective infrastructure delivery.
The meeting was attended by Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office for Policy, Parliament, Coordination, and Persons with Disabilities, William Lukuvi; Minister of Construction, Abdallah Ulega; and Deputy Minister of Transport, David Kihenzile.
Also present were Deputy Secretary-General of the Prime Minister’s Office for Policy, Parliament, Coordination, and Persons with Disabilities, Dr. James Kilabuko, and Secretary-General of the Ministry of Transport, Prof. Godius Kahyarara.
Officials from the Public-Private Partnership Centre (PPPC), led by Executive Director David Kafulila, highlighted the potential for private sector investment to complement government funding, improve project quality, and ensure timely completion.
Dr. Nchemba emphasized that expressways are crucial for boosting trade, reducing transport costs, and improving regional connectivity.
“Strategic expressways are not only vital for mobility but also for connecting communities and enabling trade that benefits all Tanzanians,” he said.
The discussion focused on project prioritization, regulatory frameworks, and investment models to attract credible investors.
PPPC officials presented case studies from ongoing and completed projects, underscoring lessons on risk management, contract execution, and operational efficiency.
Tanzania’s transport sector has grown steadily, with expressways connecting urban and industrial hubs becoming key drivers of economic activity.
Analysts note that successful PPP projects could attract billions of shillings in private investment, create jobs, and strengthen Tanzania’s position in the East African Community trade network.
The meeting concluded with a decision to establish a task force to oversee the identification, structuring, and monitoring of expressway PPP projects, ensuring alignment with national development priorities and international best practices.
PPP arrangements have become a popular model across Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean, allowing countries to leverage private capital while improving public infrastructure.
In the region, Kenya and Nigeria have successfully used PPPs to develop highways and expressways, resulting in faster project delivery and enhanced economic benefits.
With Tanzania’s population surpassing 65 million and trade volumes on the rise, modern, high-capacity roads are critical for economic growth.
Experts believe that expressways under PPP can improve logistics, lower costs for businesses, and stimulate growth in manufacturing, tourism, and commerce.
The government is targeting mid-2026 to finalize key agreements, signaling a major step towards a more connected and economically dynamic Tanzania.