The government has issued a stern warning to the contractor building the Ifakara–Mbingu road in Morogoro Region, demanding immediate improvement in the pace of construction or face contract termination and a ban from future public projects.
Works Minister Abdallah Ulega issued the warning during an inspection of the 62.5-kilometre road project, which is being implemented by China-based Henan Railway Company, after finding that progress on the project was far below expectations.
The minister said the slow implementation of the project was causing unnecessary hardship to residents who depend on the road for transport, trade and access to essential services.
Despite the contractor receiving an advance payment of Sh9.5 billion, the project has only reached about five per cent completion, a situation that Mr Ulega said was unacceptable.
“Government cannot continue watching public funds being spent without the expected results. The contractor must demonstrate commitment and capacity to complete this project, otherwise we will take appropriate action,” he said.
He directed officials from the Ministry of Works and the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) to convene a high-level meeting with the contractor’s management within one week to review the project’s status and agree on urgent measures.
Mr Ulega warned that failure by the contractor to meet contractual obligations could result in termination of the contract and the company being placed on a list of contractors barred from undertaking government projects in the country.
“The challenges facing wananchi because of delays cannot continue. This road is important for economic activities and people’s daily lives. We expect the contractor to increase the pace of work immediately,” he said.
The minister also ordered the contractor to undertake temporary improvements on the road, including filling potholes and regularly watering the surface to reduce dust affecting residents and road users during the construction period.
The Ifakara–Mbingu road is expected to boost economic activities in Kilombero District by improving the movement of agricultural produce, goods and passengers while reducing transport costs.
Morogoro Regional Commissioner Adam Malima said the road was a critical link for communities in Mlimba and Kilombero, supporting trade and improving access to markets and social services.
“The completion of this road will have a major impact on the lives of citizens by improving transportation and opening up economic opportunities,” Mr Malima said.
Mlimba Member of Parliament Rose Rwakatare urged the government to continue pressing the contractor to speed up construction, saying the progress recorded so far did not match the resources already committed to the project.
The government has reaffirmed that contractors implementing public projects must adhere to agreed timelines and deliver value for money to ensure infrastructure investments bring tangible benefits to citizens.
