MWANZA: THE Kigongo-Busisi Bridge marks a transformative investment in Tanzania’s infrastructure, promising substantial economic, social and regional benefits.
This pivotal project aims to enhance connectivity across Lake Victoria, linking Kigongo and Busisi in the Mwanza Region. It is a crucial component of Tanzania’s strategic transportation network.
Scheduled for completion by December this year, the bridge will strengthen connectivity and integration within the Lake Zone and the broader Eastern Africa region.
In a recent interview with the ‘Daily News’, Mwanza Regional Manager for the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS), Engineer Paschal Ambrose, highlighted the significant progress of this major transport project. He revealed that the bridge is now in its final stages of construction.
Eng Ambrose encouraged Tanzanians, especially those in the Lake Zone, to prepare to leverage the bridge for socio-economic gains in business and transportation. He noted that contractors are currently laying tarmac, installing traffic lights and erecting perimeter fencing to demarcate vehicle lanes.
“We expect to hand over the bridge for the public use by the end of December,” Eng Ambrose stated.
The 3.2-kilometre bridge, with a construction cost of 716.33bn/-, is now 90 per cent complete. It will facilitate timely crossings over the gulf of Lake Victoria between Kigongo in Misungwi District and Busisi in Sengerema District, Mwanza Region.
At the time President Samia Suluhu Hassan assumed office in 2021, the bridge was only 20 per cent complete. Eng Ambrose explained that, upon completion, it will significantly reduce the crossing time across Lake Victoria from an average of two hours using congested ferries to approximately four minutes by car.
The project’s broader implications for Tanzania’s economy and citizen welfare are profound. It supports Tanzania’s Vision 2025 and national development plans by enhancing the country’s strategic transportation network, which is vital for economic integration and regional trade.
The bridge will boost regional trade and integration by improving access between key economic regions and facilitating the movement of goods and services across borders. This aligns with regional trade and integration initiatives within the East African Community (EAC), contributing to overall economic growth.
The primary goal of the Kigongo-Busisi Bridge is to improve connectivity between Mwanza and Geita regions. By providing a direct link over Lake Victoria, it aims to reduce travel time and transportation costs, promoting smoother movement of people and goods.
The bridge is part of a broader infrastructure initiative that includes the MV ‘Hapa Kazi Tu’ ship, also nearing completion and the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), specifically the Mwanza-Isaka section, which is 60 per cent complete.
These projects align with the Tanzania Development Vision 2025 (TDV 2025), emphasising improved accessibility and infrastructure across the country. The ongoing work reflects the government’s commitment to accelerating development as outlined in the ruling party CCM Election Manifesto 2020-2025.
During a recent tour of Lake Zone regions, CCM Secretary General Ambassador Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi praised President Samia for her effective oversight of these projects. He expressed confidence in the timely completion of the Kigongo-Busisi Bridge.
Secretary of Ideology, Publicity and Training Mr Amos Makalla highlighted that the bridge, which will be the sixth longest in Africa, will facilitate smoother transportation and connect previously isolated areas of Mwanza. The new MV Hapa Kazi Tu ship and the SGR are expected to further bolster regional trade.
“Cargo from the SGR electric train can be transported via the bridge to neighbouring countries like Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), transforming East Africa’s trade network,” he added.
NEC Secretary for Politics and International Relations, Ms Radhia Abdallah Hamid, encouraged Mwanza residents to take pride in the ongoing projects and leverage the new infrastructure to boost agricultural production and economic development.
Business and Entrepreneurship Expert Dr Sylvester Jotta emphasised that the bridge will transform Mwanza City into an international trading hub, thanks to strengthened regional connectivity. He urged citizens to adopt an international perspective to fully capitalise on emerging opportunities.
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The multibillion-shilling project is being executed by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and China Railway 15 Bureau Group Corporation (CR15BGC). These developments signify a major leap forward for the Lake Zone region and Tanzania, positioning the zone as a key player in East Africa’s economic development.
Challenges and Prospects
The primary challenge in executing the project is managing construction costs. Securing and managing funding for such a large-scale project can be challenging, particularly amid fluctuating economic conditions and budget constraints. Additionally, ensuring the long-term maintenance and sustainability of the bridge is crucial to prevent deterioration and ensure safety.
However, the bridge is expected to reduce transportation costs by eliminating the need for ferry services, thereby lowering prices for goods and services and enhancing the competitiveness of local businesses. It will also create economic opportunities by attracting investment and generating jobs. The bridge’s stable and permanent crossing will enhance safety compared to ferry crossings.
Moreover, improved regional connectivity will facilitate access to markets, healthcare and education, enhancing the quality of life for residents. The bridge will also boost tourism by making travel to and within the regions more accessible, potentially increasing tourism activities and revenue.
In summary, the Kigongo-Busisi Bridge represents a transformative investment in Tanzania’s infrastructure, with the potential to deliver significant economic, social and regional benefits.
