By The Respondents reporter
The Tanzanian government, through the Tanzania Cities Transforming Infrastructure and Competitiveness (TACTIC) project implemented by the Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA), has allocated Tshs. 19.8 billion for the execution of three major development projects in Kibaha Municipal Council, Coast Region.
The projects include the construction of the modern Mnarani Market, two asphalt roads covering a total of 4.8 kilometers, a recreational park, and a project management facility.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, Kibaha Municipal Director Dr. Rogers Shemwelekwa said the investments are expected to create employment opportunities, stimulate local economic growth, improve the business environment, and enhance transport and logistics services.
He noted that upon completion, the projects are projected to increase the council’s internal revenue by at least TZS 400 million, with the overall municipal budget expected to rise to approximately Tshs. 18 billion.
“We are grateful to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for bringing this transformative project to Kibaha. It is a significant milestone for our development, and we call on residents to safeguard this infrastructure to ensure long-term benefits,” he said.
TACTIC Project Coordinator for Kibaha Municipality, Engineer John Alexander, said the initiative includes the upgrading of Tughe–Anglikana Road (1.1 km) in Tumbi Ward and the Picha ya Ndege–Lulanzi Hospital–NDC Road (3.7 km), linking Picha ya Ndege and Tangini wards.
He added that the Mnarani Market project is financed through a concessional loan from the World Bank, aimed at strengthening market infrastructure and boosting commercial productivity.
Meanwhile, TARURA engineer Fredrick Nzogela stated that the project will expand the paved road network under the agency’s management from 39 km to 43 km. The roads will feature modern drainage systems and street lighting, enabling safer transport and extending business hours into the night.
Ward Councillor for Picha ya Ndege, Grace Jungulu, said the road connecting to Lulanzi District Hospital will significantly improve access to healthcare services, while also facilitating trade and movement to the Mnarani Market.
For his part, George Mode, Chairperson of Mkoani A Street in Tumbi Ward, said the Tughe–Anglikana Road will serve as an alternative route, helping ease congestion on the Morogoro highway while improving access to Tumbi Hospital.
Local trader Amina Mwinyimvua welcomed the project, expressing optimism among business operators and urging authorities to prioritize existing traders when allocating spaces in the new market.
