The government has directed the contractor building the Mnivata–Mitesa (100km) road in Mtwara Region to complete at least 50 kilometres of tarmac within three months, in a move aimed at accelerating economic growth and improving transport connectivity in the southern corridor.
The directive was issued by the Minister for Works Abdallah Ulega during his working visit to Mtwara Region, where he inspected the progress of the Mnivata–Newala–Masasi road project and engaged with residents living along the project area.
Ulega said the government expects faster implementation of infrastructure projects while maintaining quality standards, stressing that the road is central to unlocking business opportunities, reducing transport costs, and connecting key districts in the region.
He instructed the contractor to intensify construction works by operating both day and night shifts to ensure timely delivery of the project.
He also directed the installation of streetlights from Naliendele to Masasi to improve safety and support business activities during night hours.
“I want wananchi to start benefiting from this road without delay. By October this year, at least 50 kilometres must be completed with tarmac, including the installation of streetlights along the route,” said Ulega.
He added that the directive reflects instructions from President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has emphasized that new road projects should go hand in hand with street lighting in towns and villages to enhance security and economic activities.
Ulega noted that timely completion of the road will improve transport efficiency, reduce vehicle operating costs, and stimulate trade within Mtwara and neighbouring regions.
He further said that the government has allocated more than TZS 600 billion for road projects in Mtwara and Lindi regions, as part of its broader plan to strengthen infrastructure, expand markets, and improve livelihoods.
Mtwara Regional Commissioner, Colonel Donald Msengi, commended the government for its continued investment in infrastructure, saying the projects are transforming the region and creating long-term economic opportunities.
He urged citizens to protect road infrastructure once completed, warning that vandalism and neglect would undermine development efforts.
“These investments belong to the people. It is our responsibility to protect them so that they serve current and future generations,” he said.
Nanyamba Member of Parliament Abdallah Chikota welcomed the government’s directive, noting that it would help speed up project delivery and create employment opportunities for local residents, especially in non-technical roles.
He also praised the inclusion of street lighting in the project, saying it will improve safety and boost night-time business activities.
Earlier, the Regional Manager of the Tanzania National Roads Agency TANROADS, Engineer Emil Zengo, said the project is being implemented in two sections by different contractors.
He said the 100km Mnivata–Mitesa section, executed by China Wu Yi, has reached 56.4% completion, while the 60km Mitesa–Masasi section, handled by China Communications Construction Company, has reached 75.4% completion.
He added that efforts are underway to accelerate construction works through increased manpower and equipment mobilization to meet government deadlines.
Once completed, the Mnivata–Mitesa–Masasi road is expected to significantly boost agriculture, trade, and regional integration, while improving the overall quality of life for residents in southern Tanzania.
