Dodoma: The Tanzanian government, through the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS), has signed 93 contracts valued at 868.56 billion Tanzanian shillings for the rehabilitation of infrastructure damaged by El Niño rains and Cyclone Hidaya. These projects include the construction of emergency roads and bridges across various regions of the country.
According to Nam News Network, minister for Works, Innocent Bashungwa, emphasized the need for contractors to adhere to professional standards and the agreed terms, warning that the government will take action against any contractor who fails to deliver. He also dismissed rumors that construction projects have been halted, confirming that the government is actively implementing 87 road projects covering 3,140.7 kilometers, along with bridges and airports.
An initial payment of 53.9 billion shillings has already been disbursed to contractors to kickstart the projects. Bashungwa highlighted the government's commitment to empowering local contractors, noting that 90% of the projects will be executed by Tanzanian firms as directed by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The signed contracts will be executed in multiple regions, including Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Geita, and others. TANROADS CEO Eng Mohamed Besta pledged to ensure the projects meet standards and are completed on time. Dodoma District Commissioner Jabir Shekimweri reiterated that construction projects in Dodoma, such as the outer ring road and Msalato International Airport, are progressing well. Ushetu MP Emmanuel Cherehani expressed gratitude for the government's allocation of approximately 13 billion shillings for bridge and culvert construction in his constituency.