41m- stone bridge boosts mining sector in Mara Region

MUSOMA: COMPLETION of the 41-metre Matongo stone bridge over the River Pigite is set to unlock economic activity in Tarime Rural, boosting mining operations at Nyamongo and easing movement between key wards.

The bridge, under construction along the Matongo–Nyarwana road, is expected to transform transport and trade in Matongo and Kibasuka wards—areas known for farming, livestock keeping, and mineral extraction.

Officials say the improved link will directly support productivity at the Nyamongo mining site in Matongo Ward.

Tarime District Manager for TARURA, Engineer Charles Marwa, made the remarks during a special tour inspecting development projects funded through various revenue sources. He noted the project is financed through the Emergency Relief Fund (CERC) supported by the World Bank.

Before construction began, residents relied on a makeshift crossing built on a fig tree, paying 1,000/- per adult and 500/- per child—an arrangement Marwa described as dangerous and unreliable.

“Crossing there was unsafe because the structure was made of logs and exposed users to serious risks,” he said.

The bridge is now about 70 percent complete, with 2.6 kilometres of gravel access roads already in place. Authorities are preparing to lay the concrete deck so the structure can begin operations.

Marwa emphasized the bridge’s economic and social impact, noting that Matongo hosts a busy livestock market while Nyamongo is a hub for mining activities. Previously, flooding forced people and cattle to swim across the river—often at great risk.

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“This bridge is a lifeline. On market days, people and livestock struggled to cross when the river flooded. Now, movement will be safe and efficient, boosting incomes and improving livelihoods,” he said.

Residents have welcomed the project. Baraka Mahanga Kidebe of Nyarwana village in Kibasuka Ward said the bridge and road construction have already brought hope after years of transport challenges.

Similarly, Nchagwa Mesenda Magige from Matongo Ward said accessing essential goods and services in Nyamongo and attending market days had been difficult before construction began.

“With this road and bridge, we are finally getting the services we deserve,” he said.