The construction of the Iringa Municipal Bypass Road is expected to transform transport and unlock new economic opportunities in Iringa Region as the government pushes ahead with major infrastructure investments under the Sixth Phase administration.
Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba said the 7.3-kilometre tarmac road project will ease traffic congestion in Iringa Municipality, improve the movement of goods and people, and support the town’s growing commercial activities.
Speaking on Saturday during an inspection of the project’s progress in Iringa Region, Dr. Nchemba said strategic infrastructure projects remain central to the government’s plan to stimulate economic growth and improve public services.
“This road is important for the economy of Iringa and the nation at large. It will reduce traffic congestion, strengthen business activities and accelerate the growth of Iringa Municipality,” he said.
The bypass is expected to provide relief to motorists and residents, particularly around the Ipogoro hill area, which has for years experienced traffic bottlenecks and frequent accidents linked to rising numbers of vehicles and rapid urban expansion.
Dr. Nchemba said the government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan has continued implementing large-scale road projects across the country to strengthen connectivity and improve transport efficiency.
He described President Samia as a leader focused on delivering results, noting that major infrastructure projects are now visible in many parts of the country.
The Prime Minister also used the visit to caution contractors against delaying payments to subcontractors, technicians and casual labourers working on government-funded projects.
“It is not right for a project to be completed while some of those who provided services remain unpaid,” he said, urging contractors to ensure workers are paid as funds are released.
Deputy Minister for Works, Engineer Godfrey Kasekenya, said the bypass forms part of the government’s wider strategy to construct ring roads and bypasses in major urban centres to reduce congestion and improve cargo transportation.
According to Acting TANROADS Iringa Regional Manager Engineer Hosea Machaka, the project has reached 38.5 percent completion.
He said ongoing works include rock blasting, earth filling, culvert construction and the development of diversion routes.
Iringa Urban MP Fadhili Ngajilo said residents have welcomed the project with optimism, expressing hope that it will improve transport services and stimulate economic growth in the municipality.
