Lindi airport project awaits funding
DODOMA: CONSTRUCTION of the proposed Lindi Airport remains contingent on the securing of necessary financing, the Deputy Minister for Transport David Kihenzile told the National Assembly yesterday.
He said the project has already reached an advanced stage, with design work completed and a contractor identified, placing the focus now on mobilising financial resources estimated at 124bn/-.
“The design has been completed and a contractor has already been secured. The next step is to obtain funds so that implementation can begin,” he told the National Assembly.
Mr Kihenzile said this in response to a basic question by Special Seats MP (CCM), Ms Kijakazi Mohamed, who sought to know when residents of Lindi would benefit from the longawaited airport, noting that it is a government policy for each region to have such infrastructure.
In response, he said the project is among key priorities, given Lindi’s growing importance in the energy sector and the need to align infrastructure development with strategic investments.
He further said the planned airport is expected to play a critical role in unlocking economic potential in Lindi, particularly by supporting the LNG project and improving connectivity in the region.
On the construction of Lindi Airport, he said valuation of properties belonging to wananchi affected by the project has already been completed.
“About 6bn/- is required to compensate those whose properties fall within the project area, with payments expected to follow once funds are secured and verification processes finalised,” he said.
He said compensation is a necessary step before construction can begin, in line with legal procedures governing such projects.
“The Lindi Airport is expected to complement the Kilwa Masoko Port, which is nearing completion and is projected to enhance trade and logistics activities in the area,” he said.
Responding to a supplementary question from Makete MP (CCM), Mr Festo Sanga, on the proposed airport in Njombe Region, he said it has been included among priority national projects, largely due to its potential to support agricultural production, especially horticulture.
In his supplementary question, Mr Sanga had sought clarification on when the project would take off, citing previous assurances that have yet to materialise.
In response, the Deputy Minister said the project is currently at the land acquisition stage, after which design and construction phases will follow.
He said inclusion of the Njombe airport among priority projects reflects its importance in facilitating the transportation of agricultural produce to wider markets.
In a supplementary question, Tunduru MP (CCM), Mr Fadhili Chilombe, raised concerns over delays despite the district council having already set aside land for the project.
In response, Mr Kihenzile said progress has been made towards the construction of a new airport in Tunduru District after the previous facility was closed on safety grounds.
“The earlier site was found to be inadequate due to its size, prompting authorities to agree on identifying a more suitable location,” he said.
He said construction will proceed once a new site is secured and necessary preparations are completed.
