The government has invested Sh218 billion in education, healthcare and road infrastructure in Mbeya Region, in a move aimed at improving public services, expanding economic opportunities and raising living standards.
The Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), Professor Riziki Shemdoe, said President Samia Suluhu Hassan had approved Sh75 billion for Mbeya Region, part of which was used to construct 57 new schools, 1,100 classrooms and 23 teachers’ houses.
He also announced that the government had allocated Sh5.2 billion in the 2026/27 financial year to support the construction of 1,100 classrooms in preparation for the expected double cohort of students entering Form One in 2028.
Professor Shemdoe made the remarks on October 16, 2026, during a public meeting at Mwanjelwa in Mbeya City, where he outlined measures being taken by PO-RALG to address residents’ concerns and development challenges.
The meeting was held during Vice-President Deogratius Ndejembi’s visit to inspect the implementation of development projects in the region.
“This year, we have Sh5.2 billion that will be used to construct 1,100 classrooms in preparation for students completing Standard Seven and Standard Six who will join Form One in 2028 under the double-cohort system, following the implementation of the new curriculum,” Professor Shemdoe said.
In the health sector, he said the Sixth Phase Government had invested Sh47 billion in Mbeya Region between 2021 and 2026.
Part of the funding was used to construct 287 dispensaries, 33 health centres and three district council hospitals, expanding access to healthcare services for residents.
On road infrastructure, Professor Shemdoe said the government had invested Sh96 billion in Mbeya City between 2021 and 2026, supporting the construction of 96 kilometres of roads.
Of the total road network, 12.3 kilometres were constructed under the Tanzania Cities Transforming Infrastructure and Competitiveness (TACTIC) project.
He added that the government had allocated a further Sh22.5 billion in the current financial year for road construction in urban and rural areas.
The investments in education, healthcare and roads are expected to strengthen the delivery of essential services while improving connectivity and supporting economic activities across Mbeya Region.
The Sh218 billion investment also aligns with Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050, which seeks to improve social services, stimulate economic growth and enhance citizens’ quality of life.