The 70-kilometre Kibaoni-Sitalike road is poised to open up new economic opportunities in Katavi and neighbouring regions by improving connectivity, easing the movement of goods and linking producers to markets, Works Minister Abdallah Ulega has said.
Mr Ulega said the road would play a strategic role in stimulating trade and economic activity across the Southern Highlands while strengthening commercial links with neighbouring countries.
He made the remarks in Katavi while inspecting progress on the project, assuring residents that the government would continue providing funds to ensure construction is completed within the planned timeframe and to the required standards.
“I assure residents that we will pay the contractor working on the Kibaoni-Sitalike road soon so that work can continue. The government will continue ensuring that funds are available for the project to be completed,” Mr Ulega said.
He said the completed road would reduce transport challenges for passengers and businesses, improve the movement of agricultural produce and other goods, and give communities better access to markets.
The minister also disclosed that the government had already paid Sh4 billion for construction works on the Mpanda-Kigoma road, while directing the contractor to accelerate completion of the Mnyamasi Bridge.
He said completing the bridge was particularly important to maintaining reliable connectivity during the rainy season, when some sections of the road network can become difficult to use.
“We want the Mnyamasi Bridge completed quickly so that residents and other road users do not face difficulties during the rainy season. Project supervisors must ensure that the work is carried out efficiently and at the required pace,” he said.
Mr Ulega directed project supervisors to identify sections that regularly disrupt transport during the rainy season and implement permanent solutions rather than relying on temporary interventions.
He stressed that speed of construction should not compromise the quality and durability of the infrastructure.
TANROADS Katavi Regional Manager, Eng Martin Mwakabende, said the first section of the Kibaoni-Sitalike road had been divided into three segments, with construction estimated at Sh88.72 billion.
He said continued government investment in road infrastructure was contributing to improved connectivity and creating a stronger foundation for economic activity in Katavi and neighbouring regions.
The Kibaoni-Sitalike road is part of the government’s broader investment in improving Tanzania’s transport network, with its completion expected to strengthen the connection between production areas and markets.
For Katavi residents and businesses, the project could mean lower transport difficulties, improved access to markets and greater opportunities to participate in regional trade once the road becomes fully operational.
