The government, through the Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA), has completed a 16.6-meter-long, 7-meter-wide stone bridge at Sabasaba in the Simba Camp area of Karatu District, at a cost of TZS 81 million.
The project was carried out under the World Bank-funded Contingent Emergency Response Component (CERC), which aims to restore and improve infrastructure damaged by floods.
Alongside the bridge, the government is constructing a 10-kilometer gravel road connecting Manyara and Lositeteya, with 3.5 kilometers already underway.
TARURA Karatu District Manager, Engineer Msetu Madara, told journalists that before the bridge was built, the road was often impassable during the 2024/2025 rainy season.
“The bridge has removed transport bottlenecks and made it easier for residents of Simba Camp, Slahhamo, Upper Kitete, Lositete, and surrounding hamlets to move goods. Residents can now transport their produce efficiently within and outside the district. Stone bridge technology and drainage channels have also reduced waterlogging in fields and on roads,” said Madara.
He added that using stone construction has significantly lowered costs compared to conventional concrete bridges.
Slahhamo Village Chairman, Ombeni Panga, praised the government, saying the project has brought enormous benefits to residents.
“Before, we relied on makeshift bridges that would be swept away during heavy rains. Now, even during the rainy season, the road is passable. Water from Ngorongoro Forest used to flood the area, and the clayey soil with hilly terrain made travel difficult. Today, residents and students move freely,” he said.
Residents also highlighted the project’s role in creating jobs and building skills among youth. Edward Juma, a youth from Moshi, said: “We gained employment and learned skills that will help us secure future work. I am grateful for this opportunity.”
Criscent Sarawati noted that the bridge has improved farm conditions by reducing flooding and cutting transport costs from TZS 5,000 to TZS 3,000, making it easier to bring produce to market.
Resident Febrania Thomas said the road upgrades have eased transport, reduced costs, and improved livelihoods across the area.
