Residents of Bukombe District in Geita Region have welcomed the government’s continued investment in development projects, saying the initiatives will improve access to essential services, strengthen local businesses and create new economic opportunities.
The projects include the construction of a modern market and bus terminal in Ushirombo worth more than TZS 22 billion, a water project serving nearly 10,000 residents, road improvements, and social services facilities in mining areas.
The projects were inspected by Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, during his development tour of Bukombe District, where he assessed implementation progress and called on contractors to complete the works on time to allow citizens to benefit.
Speaking during a public meeting, Minister Mavunde said the government, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership, was focused on delivering projects that respond to citizens’ needs and support economic growth.
“The government is committed to ensuring that development projects are completed on time so that citizens can start benefiting from improved services and economic opportunities,” he said.
The minister inspected the Businda-Buntubili water project in Bulangwa Ward, which is being implemented at a cost of more than TZS 963.7 million.
Upon completion, the project is expected to provide clean and safe water services to 9,949 residents, reducing challenges associated with access to reliable water supplies.
Residents also welcomed the construction of the modern Ushirombo market and bus terminal in Katente Ward, describing the project as an important investment that will improve the environment for traders and boost commercial activities.
Minister Mavunde directed the contractor to increase the pace of construction to ensure the project is completed within the planned timeframe, enabling traders who were affected by the project to return to improved business spaces.
He also acknowledged the contribution of Bukombe Member of Parliament, Dr Doto Biteko, in supporting efforts to attract strategic government projects to the district.
Meanwhile, small-scale miners in Bukombe expressed appreciation to President Samia for creating opportunities for local participation in the mining sector, including the allocation of some mining areas to Tanzanian miners.
The minister, however, reminded miners to respect mining laws and avoid entering areas with valid exploration licences, warning that such actions could create conflicts and affect orderly management of the sector.
He said the government was working to strengthen the licensing system to ensure more Tanzanians benefit from the country’s mineral resources while maintaining responsible mining practices.
In infrastructure development, Minister Mavunde inspected the construction of a 1.2-kilometre road from Uyovu to Namonge in Runzewe Ward, a project valued at more than TZS 917.6 million.
He said the road would improve transport links, support trade and enhance safety for residents and businesses operating along the route.
At the Msasa mining area, the minister inspected a police station and dispensary being constructed through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions from small-scale miners.
He said the projects demonstrate the importance of mining companies and miners contributing to the development of communities where they operate.
Geita Regional Commissioner Martin Shigella said the projects in Bukombe would have a significant impact on residents by improving services and supporting economic activities.
He also conveyed residents’ appreciation to President Samia for funding the construction of the Ushirombo modern market, saying the facility would provide better trading conditions, increase business opportunities and improve revenue collection for the local authority.
The projects, he added, are expected to benefit not only Ushirombo residents but also communities from surrounding areas who depend on the district’s growing commercial activities.
