The government has stepped up efforts to ensure road infrastructure for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is completed on schedule, with Minister for Works Abdallah Ulega directing contractors to accelerate construction of key transport links in Arusha.
During an inspection of the 70-kilometre Mbauda–Losinyai road project on Monday, Mr Ulega instructed the contractor to deploy additional equipment, engineers and workers to fast-track implementation, saying the project is critical to Tanzania's preparations for co-hosting Africa's biggest football tournament next year.
He also directed the contractor to establish independent construction camps to minimise delays caused by moving machinery from one section of the project to another.
"This is one of the strategic road projects for AFCON, and it must be completed on time. The contractor should increase equipment, technical personnel and workforce while operating day and night to meet the required standards before the tournament begins," Mr Ulega said.
The project is being implemented by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) under a design-and-build arrangement.
It covers the Mbauda–Morongo section and the stretch from the Arusha–T-Packers (Moshono) junction to Kiserian, with the road being upgraded into a modern four-lane highway.
Mr Ulega said the investment reflects President Samia Suluhu Hassan's commitment to expanding modern infrastructure that supports economic growth while improving the quality of life for Tanzanians.
He noted that the road forms part of a broader government strategy to strengthen Arusha City's transport network by linking key areas, including Mbauda, Mrombo, the Arusha Bypass, Kilombero Market, Kisongo Airport and the stadium that will host AFCON matches.
The minister also instructed the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) and the contractor to prioritise employment opportunities for young people living in communities along the project corridor through coordination with the District Commissioner's office.
He further urged the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) and the Arusha Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Authority (AUWSA) to speed up the relocation of electricity and water infrastructure to ensure construction progresses without unnecessary delays.
Mr Ulega appealed to residents to continue cooperating with local authorities, engineers and the contractor to facilitate timely completion of the project.
Speaking during the inspection, Arusha Urban Member of Parliament and Minister for Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Paul Makonda, said the extensive infrastructure investments underway demonstrate the government's determination to transform Arusha into a modern city capable of hosting major international events.
TANROADS Arusha Regional Manager, Engineer Reginald Masawe, said the Sh221 billion project officially commenced on April 10, 2026, after the contractor received advance payment and a notice to proceed.
He said construction is expected to be completed by March 25, 2029, with the upgraded road featuring four lanes, pedestrian walkways, modern drainage systems and street lighting to improve mobility, safety and the overall urban transport network.
