The government has approved Sh13 billion for the construction of the Loya Bridge in Tabora Region, a project expected to improve road connectivity, protect lives and ease the movement of agricultural produce to markets.
The bridge will connect Loya and Miswaki wards in Uyui District with parts of neighbouring Igunga District, addressing longstanding challenges faced by residents who struggle to cross the Loya River, particularly during the rainy season.
Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office responsible for Regional Administration and Local Government, Prof Riziki Shemdoe, said President Samia Suluhu Hassan had approved the funds during a visit to the bridge site on Saturday.
He said the project would improve transport and trade while reducing the risks faced by residents crossing the river during periods of heavy rainfall.
“This bridge will improve trade and the transportation of agricultural produce in Loya and Miswaki wards in Uyui and parts of Igunga,” Prof Shemdoe said.
The project is expected to benefit residents of Loya, Miswaki, Isuli, Lutona, Mabeshi and Simbo-Igunga villages, where poor road connectivity has disrupted economic and social activities for years.
According to Prof Shemdoe, Sh10.4 billion of the approved funds will be spent directly on construction, while part of the allocation will cover the services of a consulting engineer responsible for preparing designs and supervising the project on behalf of the government.
The bridge is expected to be completed within one year of construction starting.
Prof Shemdoe said the consultant was expected to complete the bridge design this month, with the government planning to advertise the tender for a contractor in October.
Construction is scheduled to begin in December 2026 after the contract is signed and is expected to be completed by November 2027.
The project is also expected to end the need for residents to pay Sh1,000 to cross the river using a makeshift wooden ferry built through the efforts of a local resident.
Igalula MP Juma Kawamba welcomed the project, saying residents had lost relatives while attempting to cross the river.
He urged residents to cooperate with the contractor and protect construction equipment and the completed infrastructure to ensure the bridge serves communities for years to come.
Once completed, the Loya Bridge is expected to reduce transport costs, improve access to markets and strengthen economic and social links between communities in Uyui and Igunga districts.
