Minister for Works Abdallah Ulega has commended the successful implementation of 81 emergency infrastructure projects nationwide, saying they have significantly reduced the impact of floods and improved road connectivity.
The projects, carried out by the Tanzania National Roads Agency under the special CERC programme, involved the construction of bridges and culverts in vulnerable areas.
They are now being cited as a key intervention in strengthening the country’s resilience to extreme weather.
Speaking in Morogoro during the opening of the 21st TANROADS Workers’ Council meeting, Mr Ulega said the projects were delivered on time and built to high standards by local contractors, highlighting the growing capacity of domestic expertise in infrastructure development.
He credited President Samia Suluhu Hassan for facilitating the funding, noting that the investment is already delivering tangible benefits.
According to the minister, the ongoing rains this year have caused fewer disruptions compared to previous years, largely due to improved infrastructure.
“These emergency interventions reflect the capability of our engineers and institutions to respond effectively to infrastructure challenges, particularly those caused by floods,” he said, calling for continued assessments to identify additional areas requiring similar upgrades.
Mr Ulega also urged TANROADS staff to uphold professionalism, innovation and discipline, while ensuring timely maintenance of roads and bridges to minimise inconvenience to road users.
He further directed the agency to enhance road environments through tree planting initiatives—targeting at least 1,000 shade and fruit trees per region—and to expand street lighting infrastructure.
Morogoro District Commissioner Mussa Kilakala welcomed the government’s release of advance funds for the upgrading of the Bigwa–Kisaki road to tarmac level, saying the project has already commenced and will benefit communities in Kinole and Mbingu.
Earlier, TANROADS Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Besta said the workers’ council provides a platform for strengthening staff participation in decision-making and shaping the agency’s strategic direction.
Director of Administration and Human Resources Karim Mkorehe, speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, assured the minister that the agency will implement all directives to enhance efficiency and ensure the delivery of safe and reliable infrastructure.
