The government is set to expand the Kitonga Hill section of the TANZAM Highway in Iringa Region into a modern four-lane road, complete with street lighting, in a move aimed at reducing traffic congestion and enhancing road safety.
Minister for Works, Abdallah Ulega, said the project is being implemented under the directives of President Samia Suluhu Hassan to address the growing traffic challenges and safeguard road users along this busy stretch.
Speaking during an inspection of the more than seven-kilometre section earmarked for expansion, Minister Ulega emphasized the road’s strategic importance for both the national economy and regional trade.
The highway is a key route for vehicles transporting cargo to and from Dar es Salaam Port to neighbouring countries.
“This road will now feature four lanes two in each direction up from the current two lanes. Street lighting will also be installed along the entire stretch to ensure safe travel at all times,” said Ulega.
He noted that vehicle traffic along this section has doubled in recent years, rising from 1,700 to 3,400 vehicles per day, creating congestion that the current road infrastructure cannot efficiently handle.
“I have received proposals from the Iringa TANROADS management to address traffic challenges at Kitonga Hill. I have directed our technical team to immediately start the expansion of this seven-kilometre section,” he added.
The Minister stressed that the expansion will also include safety features such as guardrails to protect road users, including residents, traders, and drivers, from accidents, particularly in areas prone to vehicles falling into ravines.
“This project is crucial for the national economy. I am instructing that procurement and implementation begin immediately to ensure timely completion and fully address the directives of President Samia,” Ulega said.
Kilolo Member of Parliament, Ritha Kabati, hailed the expansion as a boost for both the regional and national economy, noting that it will also improve access to essential social services, including healthcare in Iringa Municipality.
TANROADS Iringa Regional Manager, Engineer Yudas Msangi, said the expansion of the seven-kilometre section with two additional lanes is estimated at TZS59.2 billion, while the rehabilitation of the existing lanes will cost TZS16.2 billion.
