The government has pledged to sustain investment in development projects across Pangani District, with a renewed focus on maintaining existing public infrastructure while expanding access to essential services.
Finance Minister Ambassador Khamis Mussa Omar made the commitment on Tuesday after laying the foundation stone for the rehabilitation of 10 classrooms at the historic Funguni Primary School, saying the government is prioritising both new infrastructure and the preservation of public assets to improve service delivery.
He said regular maintenance of schools, roads and other public facilities is critical to extending their lifespan and avoiding costly repairs that could disrupt services.
"We will continue listening to citizens and addressing their priorities through development projects that improve people's lives and contribute to national development," Ambassador Omar said.
The rehabilitation of Funguni Primary School, he noted, is part of broader government efforts to provide pupils with safer and more conducive learning environments while safeguarding public investments.
During his tour of development projects in Tanga Region, the minister cited the Port of Tanga as an example of the economic impact of strategic public investment.
The government has invested more than TZS 429 billion in upgrading the port's infrastructure, with economic activities handled through the facility valued at over TZS 436 billion between July 2025 and June 2026, according to the minister.
He said the figures demonstrate the growing contribution of infrastructure investment to trade and regional economic growth.
Ambassador Omar also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen transport connectivity in Tanga through road, railway and airport projects.
He described the Tanga–Pangani–Horohoro Road as a strategic regional corridor linking Tanzania with Kenya, saying its timely completion would improve the movement of goods and people while supporting trade, tourism and investment.
He added that preparations are progressing for the planned Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) linking the Port of Tanga with Arusha and Musoma, alongside plans to expand Tanga Airport to accommodate larger aircraft and increase domestic flight connections.
Beyond transport infrastructure, the minister said the government continues to channel both recurrent and development funding to Tanga Region to improve education, healthcare, agriculture, livestock, fisheries and other productive sectors.
He urged residents to safeguard public assets and preserve peace, saying stability remains essential for attracting investment and sustaining economic development.
Local leaders welcomed the government's continued investment in Pangani, saying increased funding has improved education infrastructure, road networks and access to public services, while easing transport challenges for residents.
They also commended the Finance Minister for visiting the district to inspect ongoing projects, describing the visit as a demonstration of the government's commitment to monitoring implementation and responding to local development needs.
