Acting Director General of the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS), Engineer Ephatar Mlavi, has confirmed that 87% of the country’s national roads are in good and durable condition, reflecting the Sixth Phase Government’s commitment to improving infrastructure under President Dkt. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Speaking to journalists on March 30, 2026, in Dodoma, Engineer Mlavi said the government has continued to invest heavily in roads and bridges to boost trade, stimulate economic growth, and facilitate efficient transport of goods and passengers across the country.
“Roads are the backbone of Tanzania’s economy,” he said. “Over 80% of cargo and passenger transport depends on them. Ensuring these roads are strong and well-maintained is critical to sustaining trade and development.”
Engineer Mlavi revealed that Tanzania’s road network has now reached 182,164.41 km, with TANROADS managing 37,734.41 km of national roads.
Currently, road projects covering 5,769.74 km are under construction, alongside 79 major projects valued at over TZS 6 trillion, which are at various stages of implementation.
Major bridge projects have also progressed, with eight large bridges completed, including the J.P. Magufuli Bridge and the Tanzanite Bridge, while 17 others are under construction nationwide.
The government has strengthened vehicle weight control by installing additional weighbridges and using modern technology to protect roads from damage caused by overloaded vehicles.
Engineer Mlavi also noted that infrastructure projects have created more than 16,000 jobs, with strategies in place to increase local participation, especially by Tanzanian contractors and workers.
Despite these achievements, he acknowledged challenges such as climate change, rapid urbanization, and rising construction costs.
“The government continues to implement measures to address these issues while safeguarding ongoing investments,” he said.
Tanzania’s improved road infrastructure is expected to further enhance trade efficiency, attract investment, and support sustainable economic growth across the country.
