The Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) in Arusha Region has been directed to comprehensively identify and prioritise road sections facing challenges as part of preparations for the 2026/27 financial year budget, in a bid to improve connectivity and ease the transportation of agricultural produce and goods.
The directive was issued by the Deputy Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Regional Administration and Local Government), Mr Reuben Kwagilwa, during an inspection of the Tengeru–Nambala road in Meru District Council.
The road is 3.8 kilometres long, with 0.5 kilometres constructed to asphalt standard using funds from the Road Fund.
Mr Kwagilwa said systematic identification and timely intervention on problematic roads would unlock economic activities by enabling farmers and traders to transport their produce to markets on time, while also improving mobility for residents.
He urged TARURA to ensure all road challenges are clearly documented and addressed, noting that contractors who deliver quality work should be considered for additional projects.
“The government will continue resolving road infrastructure challenges so that citizens can fully benefit from the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan,” he said.
Arumeru West Member of Parliament, Dr Johannes Lukumay, called for an extension of the asphalted section of the road by at least five kilometres, saying the current 0.6 kilometres was insufficient.
He said the road is vital for transporting farm produce and accessing social services, but becomes impassable during the rainy season due to flooding and damaged bridges.
Dr Lukumay commended the government for investing more than Sh16.2 billion in road projects in the constituency, including the one-kilometre Ortumeti road serving the district hospital, the Sekei–Olgilai road (one kilometre), and the Sanawari–Oldonyo to Sapuko road (three kilometres).
He also requested the construction of a one-kilometre road leading to Ilboru Secondary School, citing its historical significance.
He further raised concern over delays to the Mbauda–Oljoro–Losinyai road, saying the prolonged stall has denied residents of Oljoro, Losinyai and Aparalwe reliable access to markets.
He also appealed for urgent rehabilitation of the Mbuyuni, Mirongoine and Timbolo Forest bridges, which are in poor condition.
Arumeru East Member of Parliament, Mr Joshua Nassari, stressed the importance of completing the Tengeru–Nambala road on schedule, describing it as a catalyst for economic growth.
He said the road supports businesses at Tengeru Market, boosts tourism due to hotels along the route, and improves mobility for residents and visitors alike.
Earlier, Acting TARURA Arusha Regional Manager, Engineer Julius Kaaya, said the Tengeru–Nambala project is being implemented at a cost of Sh699 million, funded through the Road Fund. Construction began on July 14, 2025, and is scheduled for completion on March 11, 2026.
He said the project has reached 66.4 per cent completion, with works including the laying of gravel layers, a 500-metre stone base, construction of 800 metres of drainage, 132 culverts, one masonry box culvert and a 1,000-metre pedestrian walkway. The project is being executed by M/S Rocktonic Ltd.
Mr Kaaya noted that TARURA’s budget has nearly tripled over the past four years, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure nationwide.
Traders at Tengeru Market, including Ms Juliana Akyoo and Mr Mbise Pendaeli, welcomed the project, saying the road had long been dusty and inconvenient.
They expressed optimism that once completed, it would enhance access to the market, expand business opportunities and benefit nearby hotels, colleges and surrounding communities.