Residents of Duluti village in Arumeru District have taken proactive measures to protect the newly constructed 4.2-kilometre Sangisi-Nambala tarmac road by planting trees along its sides. The initiative aims to prevent soil erosion and prolong the road’s lifespan.
The project, implemented by the government through the Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA), has already seen 2.36 kilometres of the road completed, easing transport for local communities.
Speaking on the initiative, Duluti Village Chairman, Mr. Harisi Kaaya, said villagers decided to safeguard the road by planting trees in designated areas.
“We held a meeting with the project contractor to determine the safe distance for planting trees without affecting the road infrastructure. We are committed to maintaining this road because we endured decades without a proper tarmac road,” he said.
Mr. Kaaya recalled that, as children, residents had never seen a tarmac road in the area. The old road was mainly used to transport coffee and other crops to local markets, and during the rainy season, it was often impassable due to soil erosion and flood damage.
“Thanks to God and the government, we now have a reliable tarmac road. During heavy rains, the previous road was completely unusable, but this new road has changed our lives,” he said.
The new road has also significantly reduced transport costs. “Earlier, we paid TZS 2,000 to reach Tengeru Market, but now we pay around TZS 500 using a bajaji. This has eased our daily lives and opened new business opportunities,” Mr. Kaaya added.
Mr. Nelson Shilinde, a manager of a company transporting flower seedlings in the area, said the road has transformed agricultural operations.
“Dust from the old road used to settle on our greenhouse plastics, blocking sunlight and affecting plant growth. Now, this problem is gone, and transporting seedlings and produce is much easier,” he said.
The road’s construction is already improving trade, reducing vehicle damage, and supporting economic growth in the region.
