Tanzania cherishes strategic, infrastructural projects that shaped 2025
DAR ES SALAAM: MEGA strategic and infrastructural projects Tanzania implemented make 2025 a banner in the development sector.
The completion of these projects has brought major transformations to Tanzania’s transport and infrastructure sectors.
During this year, the government accelerated the implementation of strategic projects aimed at improving the movement of people and goods, stimulating economic growth, and strengthening Tanzania’s position as a regional transport hub. These projects include the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, the Kigongo–Busisi Bridge, and the Kwala Dry Port.
Standard Gauge Railway (SGR): A new era for freight transport
On June 27, 2025, Tanzania made history once again with the official launch of freight train services between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma via the modern SGR railway. This marked a new chapter in heavy cargo transportation, as it was the first time the country officially introduced freight services using a standard gauge railway.
In the 2025/26 financial year budget, the government allocated TSh 1.51 trillion for the implementation of various sections of the SGR project. The launch of freight services followed extensive testing and safety inspections, building on the success of passenger services that have attracted more than 2.5 million travelers since their launch in June 2024.
With the capacity to carry up to 10,000 tonnes per trip—equivalent to about 500 trucks—the SGR freight train is expected to significantly reduce road congestion, lower transport costs, and improve efficiency for both domestic and cross-border trade.
Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): A solution to urban congestion
The year 2025 also marked major progress in the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, particularly Phase Two. The government spent TSh 285.1 billion to construct 20.3 kilometers of BRT infrastructure between Gerezani and Mbagala Rangi Tatu, expanding the public transport network in Dar es Salaam.
In August 2025, 99 BRT buses arrived in the country to begin operations and ease transportation challenges for city residents.
On August 13, 2025, former Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa inspected the buses and key infrastructure, including the Gerezani and Mbagala Rangi Tatu stations, emphasizing the importance of improving public transport as a driver of economic development.
During the inspection, he also visited a dedicated gas refueling station built at Mbagala Rangi Tatu and directed operators to ensure round-the-clock work to complete remaining sections. This effort enabled the project to begin full operations.
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Kigongo–Busisi Bridge: Connecting regions and neighbouring countries
The Kigongo–Busisi Bridge, completed in June 2025, has become a vital link connecting Mwanza Region with neighboring regions and countries, including Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The 3-kilometer-long bridge costs 718bn/- and has reduced the time required to cross Lake Victoria from more than two hours by ferry to just a few minutes. As a result, the transportation of goods and passengers has become much easier for residents of Mwanza, Geita, Kagera, and neighboring countries. Construction of the bridge began in February 2020 and was officially completed in June 2025.
Kwala Dry Port: A new hub for trade and logistics
On July 31, 2025, the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, officially inaugurated the Kwala Dry Port, a project designed to reduce congestion at the Port of Dar es Salaam and improve cargo flow.
The launch coincided with the commencement of SGR freight train services to Kwala, the reception of 50 new wagons for the old Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) along with 20 rehabilitated wagons, and the laying of a foundation stone for the Kwala Industrial Park.
The Kwala Dry Port has the capacity to handle 300,000 containers annually, a move expected to reduce congestion at the Port of Dar es Salaam by more than 30 percent and enhance Tanzania’s competitiveness in regional and international trade.
Overall, 2025 has left an indelible mark on Tanzania’s infrastructure development history. Through the SGR, BRT, Kigongo–Busisi Bridge, and the Kwala Dry Port, the government has demonstrated a strong commitment to improving citizens’ lives, boosting the economy, and fully integrating Tanzania into regional and global markets. This forms a solid foundation for the country’s journey toward a modern and more competitive economy.
