The Ministry of Works has stepped up preparations to keep roads and bridges in Tabora open during the expected El Niño rains, with TANROADS strengthening vulnerable crossings and drainage points ahead of the wet season.
Deputy Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr Charles Msonde, said the preparations were intended to reduce the risk of roads being cut off by flooding and ensure the movement of people and goods continues even during periods of heavy rainfall.
Dr Msonde spoke on September 28, 2026, during an inspection of road and bridge projects in Kaliua and Urambo districts, where he assessed measures being taken by TANROADS to protect key transport infrastructure.
He praised the Tabora regional office for reinforcing bridges, culverts and other sections considered vulnerable to heavy rains, saying preventive work was important to avoid disruptions once the rains intensify.
“I am pleased to have visited Mwongozo Bridge here in Kaliua and seen that it has been strengthened and widened. Previously, the bridge was small and water would flow over it. We believe that even with heavy rains, it will now withstand the impact,” Dr Msonde said.
The ministry's intervention comes as heavy rains pose a recurring threat to Tanzania's road network, particularly at bridges, culverts and low-lying sections where flooding can disrupt transport and isolate communities.
Dr Msonde directed TANROADS Tabora manager Engineer Raphael Mlimaji to closely supervise contractors working on road and bridge maintenance to ensure projects are completed on schedule and in accordance with required standards.
He also commended ongoing rehabilitation of the 90-kilometre Tabora-Ulyankulu road, saying maintaining the route in a passable condition was necessary while preparations continue to upgrade it to bitumen standard.
The road provides an important link between Tabora and neighbouring Shinyanga and Katavi regions, facilitating the movement of passengers, agricultural produce and other goods.
Its condition therefore has a direct bearing on transport costs, access to markets and the movement of essential services for communities along the corridor.
Engineer Mlimaji said the detailed design and feasibility study for the Tabora-Ulyankulu road had reached 97 percent completion, bringing the process closer to the next stage of upgrading the route.
The authorities' focus on maintaining the road before and during the rainy season is expected to help minimise disruptions while longer-term plans to improve the corridor are pursued.