Completion of Shinyanga Airport unlocks trade and investment in Lake Zone regions

SHINYANGA: The Minister for Works, Abdallah Ulega, has hailed the completion of the Shinyanga Airport’s expansion project, saying it will unlock trade and investment opportunities, strengthening economic links between the region and neighbouring areas.

The minister made the statement when inspecting the project and expressed satisfaction with its progress, which has reached 94.9 per cent completion.

Additionally, the minister said that the project is among key strategic initiatives being implemented by the government with the aim of upgrading air transport infrastructure to improve efficiency in the transport and logistics sector.

During the inspection, Ulega directed contractor CHICO to increase manpower and equipment to ensure the timely completion of the passenger terminal building.

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“Ensure that within the remaining 45 days, work continues day and night so the terminal is completed on schedule and the airport starts delivering the intended services,” he said.

The minister also commended TANROADS Shinyanga and the contractor for completing the 2,200-metre runway, which will safely accommodate commercial aircraft such as the Bombardier Dash 8 Q400.

Earlier, TANROADS Shinyanga Regional Manager, Eng Ntuli Mwaikokesya, said the project, which began in April 2023, is expected to be completed in April 2026 for 44.8bn/-.

He said the works include construction of the access road, internal circulation roads, parking areas, passenger terminal with control tower, and the 2.2-kilometre runway.