THE government has said it will soon resolve the long-standing land dispute involving management of Mtwara Airport and residents of Mtwara Mikindani Municipal Council.
Minister for Works and Transport, Prof Makame Mbarawa made the revelation here over the weekend when he toured Mtwara Airport.
“I’m aware of the dispute here (Mtwara Airport) but I just want to assure the residents involved that the matter will soon be resolved as the government is strictly working to settle the dispute,” he said.
The minister made the statement in response to the complaints raised by Chairman of Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) Mtwara District Mr Salven Aidan over the government’s delay to settle the long disputes.
He said several processes have been taken except a few that await for the National Land Commissioner to sign a compensation form to end the dispute.
Meanwhile Prof Mbarawa directed the airport management to comply with the aviation regulations to ensure safety at the airport.
“Airports are operated based on safety and security rules, you (Mtwara Airport management) should make sure the rules and regulations are adhered to ensure safety and security as required,” he said.
Briefing on the work progress, the Airport’s Manager Mr Samuel Mruma said the work has been completed by 96 per cent.
Mr Mruma said the management is working to complete the remaining work which includes the installation of an airfield lighting system to allow the airport to operate 24-hours.
According to Prof Mbarawa, the airport is expected to accommodate various planes including 787 Dreamliner and Airbus A320 once the work is completed.
He said the airport with new infrastructures is set to influence tourism in the region as well as promoting economic development.
The airport with 2.8-kilometres runway has been rehabilitated and installed with new infrastructure at a cost of 65bn/-.
