The Government of Tanzania has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding and improving infrastructure after Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba inspected the ongoing construction of the Noranga (Doroto)–Itigi (Mlongojii) road in Itigi, a key 25-kilometre project valued at TZS 29.6 billion.
The inspection, conducted on Sunday, May 31, 2026, in Manyoni District, focused on evaluating progress and ensuring the works are implemented in line with contractual and engineering standards.
The road is part of the larger Mbeya–Chunya–Makongolosi–Rungwa–Itigi–Mkiwa corridor, a 524-kilometre route connecting Mbeya, Singida and Tabora regions.
Once completed, the corridor is expected to enhance trade, improve transport efficiency and strengthen economic integration across central and southern Tanzania.
According to a report presented by the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS), through Director of Projects Engineer Japherson Nnko, the project has reached 83.25 percent completion as of May 30, 2026.
Out of the 25 kilometres under construction, 20.2 kilometres have already been completed to bitumen standard, while the remaining 4.8 kilometres have reached the upper base layer and are expected to be completed by June 30, 2026.
Engineer Nnko noted that the project plays a vital role in opening up economic opportunities by linking production zones with markets, reducing transport costs, and improving access to social and economic services.
He further explained that the project is fully financed by the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania and is being implemented by China Henan International Cooperation Group Co. Ltd (CHICO) at a cost of TZS 29.6 billion, excluding VAT.
Construction works began on September 16, 2022, and the revised completion date is August 7, 2026, following an approved extension of time under the contract.
As of May 30, 2026, the contractor had been paid TZS 12.9 billion, while outstanding payments amount to TZS 3.84 billion. The supervising consultant had received TZS 1.49 billion and is owed TZS 586.6 million.
On employment, the project has created 305 jobs, with 278 positions (91 percent) filled by Tanzanians and 27 positions (9 percent) occupied by foreign specialists.
In addition, 578 residents whose properties were affected by the project have been fully compensated, receiving a total of TZS 721.4 million in accordance with national land acquisition regulations.
Authorities said the compensation process has helped to smooth implementation by reducing disputes and ensuring uninterrupted construction progress.
During the inspection, Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba called for strict adherence to quality standards and urged contractors to complete the remaining works within the revised schedule.
He emphasized that road infrastructure remains central to Tanzania’s economic transformation agenda, particularly in boosting agriculture, trade and rural development.
The government continues to prioritize road development as part of its broader strategy to strengthen connectivity and unlock economic potential in underserved areas.
The Noranga–Itigi road is among key projects expected to transform local livelihoods and stimulate regional growth.
Once completed, the road is expected to significantly reduce travel time, lower transport costs and improve economic linkages between regions, contributing to national development goals.
