Salim Abri Asas, a member of the CCM National Executive Committee, has expressed deep concern over the slow progress of the Matola Market construction, despite the project being fully funded. He promised to submit a detailed report on the delays directly to President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Speaking on February 4, 2026, during an inspection tour of ongoing projects in Mbeya as part of CCM’s 49th anniversary celebrations, Asas described the situation as unacceptable.
He noted that while substantial funds had been released to support regional projects, some key initiatives, including Matola Market, remained incomplete.
“In the guidance we received during the National Executive Committee meeting, we were instructed to review all ongoing projects during the anniversary celebrations. Our national Chairperson, President Samia, has emphasized that despite funds being available, some projects are not progressing as expected,” Asas said.
He added that President Samia has directed all NEC members to closely monitor unfinished projects and report their findings.
Asas said that the contractor had failed to meet contractual obligations, resulting in slow progress, and promised to provide a comprehensive report to the President highlighting the situation at Matola Market.
Mbeya City Mayor, Dour Mohamed, highlighted challenges in financial management, saying the contractor, Siho Tech Engineering Co. Ltd, had not managed project funds effectively.
He also questioned claims that the project could be completed by May, citing delays and alleged diversions of funds to other activities.
NEC member Ndele Mwaselela criticized the slow pace of construction, pointing to the limited number of workers at the site as a major factor hampering progress.
“You cannot expect a major project like this to be completed on schedule when the workforce is so small and progress remains slow,” he said.
Mbeya City Acting Director, Annamary Joseph, said the project was originally expected to be completed by August 31, 2025, but revisions to the design, including additional work on the upper floor, and technical approvals caused delays.
She also noted that continuous rains had slowed construction further. The contractor has now been given an extension until May 28, 2026, and is required to increase manpower and work continuously to accelerate completion.
The Matola Market project is a major strategic investment in Mbeya, expected to stimulate economic activities and provide business opportunities once it is completed.