Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (Regional Administration and Local Government - PMO-RALG) Riziki Shemdoe, has emphasized the need to strengthen planning of emerging satellite cities around major Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) stations to accelerate economic growth and improve urban development.
Prof Shemdoe made the remarks on May 16, 2026, in Baku, Azerbaijan, during a meeting between the Tanzanian delegation and the Executive Director of UN-Habitat, held on the sidelines of the World Urban Forum.
The Tanzanian delegation was led by the Minister for Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development, Leonard Akwilapo.
According to Prof Shemdoe, proper planning of satellite cities around key SGR stations will help create jobs, attract investment, reduce unplanned settlements, improve transport and communication systems, increase land and property value, and protect the environment.
He said Tanzania should work closely with UN-Habitat to ensure that the emerging urban centres connected to the SGR network are developed in an organized and sustainable manner.
“It is important, in collaboration with UN-Habitat, to strengthen planning for emerging cities around major SGR stations and also establish agricultural clusters that will support freight transportation of agricultural produce and other goods through the railway system,” Prof Shemdoe said.
He noted that integrating agriculture, transport infrastructure, and urban planning would create new economic opportunities while boosting efficiency in logistics and regional trade.
Prof Shemdoe also highlighted ongoing government efforts under President Samia Suluhu Hassan to develop Kwala into a modern commercial city aimed at reducing congestion in Dar es Salaam.
He said the government is seeking stronger collaboration with UN-Habitat, the Ministry of Lands, and PMO-RALG to attract private sector investment into the Kwala project while ensuring compliance with urban planning regulations and standards.
According to him, well-planned satellite cities can play a major role in supporting rapid urbanization while preventing the growth of informal settlements and overstretched infrastructure in major cities.
The meeting also discussed the planned launch of UN-Habitat offices in Dodoma, preparations for the Africa Urban Forum, and broader cooperation between Tanzania and UN-Habitat on sustainable urban development initiatives.
The World Urban Forum brings together governments, urban planners, development partners, and international organizations to discuss strategies for sustainable cities, housing, and urban transformation.
