The recently completed Mkuyuni Bridge in Mwanza is already transforming daily life for residents, providing safe and reliable access that has prevented disasters during the recent heavy rains.
Minister of Construction, Abdallah Ulega, visited the bridge today and spoke with residents, emphasizing how the project has immediately eased the challenges they faced during the rainy season.
“Last week, rainfall in this area reached 185 millimeters, far above the usual 140 millimeters. Without this bridge, many parts of Mkuyuni would have been completely cut off, causing serious damage and disruption,” he said. “People living here know the real value of this bridge.”he added
The bridge, which began construction in November 2024 at a cost of over TZS 5 billion, is part of a larger emergency infrastructure program ordered by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The initiative, valued at over TZS 560 billion, aims to restore and improve roads and bridges damaged by floods and cyclones over the past two years.
Minister Ulega urged residents to be the first defenders of government projects, countering misinformation that often ignores the tangible benefits such developments bring to communities.
During the visit, Ulega confirmed that he would report to Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba that the bridge, built by the patriotic contractor JASCO, is now officially complete, including the installation of streetlights.
He also contributed TZS 5 million to support small traders whose businesses were affected by recent floods.
“The government cares about people. We may not be able to replace everything lost, but we can show humanity to those affected,” he said.
According to Paschal Ambrose, TANROADS Mwanza Regional Manager, the bridge is 15 meters wide and has six lanes – four for vehicles and two for pedestrians.
Its completion will significantly improve road access between Mwanza and Shinyanga, ensuring residents can travel safely even during heavy rains.
Nyamagana District Commissioner, Amina Makilagi, thanked President Samia for the bridge, saying it will be a lifeline for residents.
“If this bridge hadn’t been built, parts of Mkuyuni would still be inaccessible because of flooding,” she said.
The bridge is now helping farmers, traders, commuters, and schoolchildren move safely, ensuring life in the area continues without disruption.
For the residents of Mkuyuni, the bridge is more than infrastructure – it is safety, connectivity, and hope restored.
