Newly appointed Works Minister Masanja Kadogosa has pledged to work closely with ministry officials and industry stakeholders to improve the implementation of infrastructure projects, saying efficiency and professionalism will be critical to delivering the government's development targets.
Mr Kadogosa made the remarks on Friday, October 2, 2026, after formally taking over the Ministry of Construction from Abdallah Ulega at the ministry's offices in Mtumba, Dodoma.
The handover followed President Samia Suluhu Hassan's Cabinet changes announced on September 27, which moved Mr Ulega to the Ministry of Works and Legal Affairs and appointed Mr Kadogosa to head the construction ministry.
Mr Kadogosa said he would seek the views and advice of ministry officials and other stakeholders as he works to advance the construction sector, which remains central to the expansion of roads, bridges and other infrastructure needed to support economic activity.
“My office is open to anyone with ideas and advice on how to improve our sector. The door is open; let us work together to raise the sector,” he said.
The minister's remarks place project implementation and infrastructure performance among the issues likely to shape his tenure, particularly as the government continues investing in transport infrastructure across the country.
Beyond new construction, Mr Kadogosa highlighted the need to protect existing infrastructure from weather-related damage.
He commended preparations by the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) to deal with the possible effects of the rains expected in various parts of the country.
He directed the agency to maintain preparedness and take appropriate measures to strengthen the safety and durability of roads and bridges.
Heavy rains can damage road surfaces, weaken bridges, wash away culverts and disrupt transport, with the effects extending to farmers, traders, commuters and businesses that depend on reliable road connections.
The emphasis on preparedness therefore puts infrastructure maintenance alongside new projects as an important component of the ministry's responsibilities.
Mr Kadogosa also said he was prepared to learn from ministry leaders, employees and stakeholders as he takes charge of the portfolio.
His approach could provide room for technical officials and industry players to contribute to discussions on project implementation and the challenges affecting the construction sector.
The ministry is responsible for overseeing key institutions involved in infrastructure development, including TANROADS, making effective coordination important to the delivery and maintenance of the country's road network.
For citizens, the performance of the construction sector has a direct bearing on the quality and reliability of transport infrastructure, including the time and cost involved in moving people and goods.
Mr Ulega, who handed over the ministry after his reassignment, urged officials to give his successor the cooperation needed to ensure the ministry continues implementing its responsibilities effectively.
He said cooperation among officials would be important for maintaining progress in the construction sector and national infrastructure development.
The handover was witnessed by Deputy Minister for Works Godfrey Kasekenya, Permanent Secretary Ambassador Engineer Aisha Amour, Deputy Permanent Secretary Dr Charles Msonde, ministry management, heads of institutions under the ministry and other officials.
Mr Kadogosa now takes charge of the ministry at a time when infrastructure development remains a major component of Tanzania's broader economic and social development agenda, with the effectiveness of project execution and maintenance directly affecting connectivity and economic activity.