CCM envisions Dar megacity

DAR ES SALAAM: CCM presidential candidate Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan has outlined a new phase in Dar es Salaam’s transformation, prioritising infrastructure projects to ease congestion and strengthen economic activity.

She pledged to expand the city’s road network, build new flyovers, strengthen flood control systems and complete the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network to support business growth and mobility.

Addressing a campaign rally at Kecha grounds in Tabata Kinyerezi, Ilala District, Dar es Salaam Region yesterday, Dr Samia said if the CCM government is re-elected, the next five years will focus on upgrading key transport corridors and implementing flood-control measures under the Dar es Salaam Metropolitan Development Project (DMDP II).

She said construction of the Jangwani Bridge will start soon, with funds already in place, while new flyovers are planned at Tabata, Buguruni and Fire to improve movement in the commercial hub.

“Our goal is to build a modern, efficient city that supports trade and transport at all hours,” she told thousands of residents.

Dr Samia said Dar es Salaam has made huge progress in infrastructure over the past four years through BRT expansion, improved roads and enhanced water and power supply.

“In Ilala, we have done a great job building roads and BRT infrastructure. Four companies are now bringing in buses to completely remove the transport challenges facing the city,” she said.

She further said the CCM government, if reelected, will continue opening up business centres through new markets and modern bus terminals.

“In the last five years, we built ten markets and a modern abattoir at Vingunguti. If you give us your consent, we will build more markets, especially at Jangwani and Kariakoo, to create better spaces for small traders,” she said.

The CCM candidate also cited plans to boost urban housing, noting that the National Housing Corporation (NHC) is constructing 5,000 units, including 560 completed houses in Kawe, 400 under construction at Mtoni and 1,000 more set to start soon.

“Kariakoo is being redeveloped through 16 public-private partnership projects to provide modern business and residential facilities,” she said.

Dr Samia highlighted progress in the energy sector, saying Dar es Salaam now enjoys reliable electricity, with the government targeting generation of 8,000 megawatts by 2030, up from 4,000 megawatts currently.

“In Ilala, power connections have increased from 374,554 in 2021 to over 423,000 today. Without electricity the economy cannot grow, so we will continue expanding reliable supply,” she said.

She added that through local government empowerment programmes, Ilala Municipal Council has disbursed 11bn/- in ten-percent interest-free loans for women, youths and people with disabilities and pledged a 200bn/- national fund to support small traders.

On governance reforms, Dr Samia said several commissions on taxation, justice, foreign relations, national vision and the Loliondo land dispute have concluded their work, with some expected to submit their reports after the election.

“We have strengthened our justice system, enhanced coordination among security and investigative agencies and restored Tanzania’s reputation abroad,” she said.

ALSO READ: Samia parades CCM’s Election Manifesto in Dar today

Dr Samia assured residents that if re-elected, her government will keep investing in education, health and housing to make the city more inclusive.

“Development has no limit; we will continue building schools, hospitals and roads so that Dar es Salaam remains the engine of national growth,” she said.

Ilala parliamentary candidate Mr Musa Zungu said President Samia’s decision to involve the private sector in operating the Dar es Salaam Port has delivered tangible economic gains.

He said government revenue rose from 10tri/- in 2022/23 to 12tri/- in 2024/25, while container handling increased from 700,000 to 1.8 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).

“These achievements translate directly into more jobs and business opportunities for ordinary Tanzanians,” he said.

Mr Zungu added that improved customs procedures and increased vehicle handling from six million to twelve million units have boosted efficiency and transparency.

“Mama Samia’s leadership has brought discipline and accountability. The port is no longer a bottleneck; it is a driver of national prosperity,” he said, urging voters to sustain the progress on October 29.

Pangani parliamentary candidate and Water Minister Jumaa Aweso commended President Samia for spearheading transformation in the water sector.

He cited the 37bn/- Bangulo Tank Project, which will supply safe water to residents of Kibamba, Ukonga and Kivule, describing it as a lifeline after years of scarcity.

“When I first toured these areas, the taps were dry and people walked long distances. Today, thanks to Dr Samia’s leadership, the funds are available and work is under way,” he said.

Mr Aweso said more than 400 rural water projects have been completed under her tenure, improving health, productivity and quality of life, especially for women and children.

“The president has restored dignity to families and strengthened the economy. Clean water means women can work and children can study,” he said.

Former opposition MP Peter Msigwa commended Dr Samia’s leadership, saying he joined the ruling party after witnessing her development drive first-hand.

“I have travelled widely and seen the projects implemented under her watch, including new hospitals, roads and water systems. These are not slogans; they are visible realities,” he said.

He urged young voters to reject divisive politics and protect the peace that enables progress.

“Tanzania under Dr Samia is a nation of calm progress. We debate ideas, not insults. That is what attracts investors and builds our economy,” he said.