Minister orders a quality construction of Msalato Airport as it nears completion
DODOMA: THE Minister for Transport, Prof Makame Mbarawa, has directed contractors and supervising agencies involved in the construction of the Msalato International Airport to ensure quality and value for money as the project enters its final stages, stressing that the facility must be fully operational by May this year.
The first phase of the project costing approximately 370bn/- has reached 79.9 per cent completion and is scheduled to be finalised by February 21, 2026.
The second phase, which is at 66.6 per cent, is expected to be completed by May 27, 2026.
Speaking after inspecting progress at the site, Prof Mbarawa expressed satisfaction with the ongoing works but underscored the need for utmost precision during the finishing stage.
“The finishing stage must be executed carefully because it gives the project its final outlook. I urge contractors to work closely with Tanroads, TAA and TCAA to ensure timely completion and adherence to quality standards.
By May this year, we want the airport to be 100 per cent operational,” he insisted.
Tanroads Dodoma Regional Manager, Ms Zuhura Amani, said the first phase, valued at 165.6bn/-, has so far seen the contractor paid 136.32bn/-. Works undertaken include the construction of the runway, two taxiways, aircraft parking apron, installation of airfield lighting systems and navigational aids.
Other works include the main access road, internal roads, vehicle parking areas, perimeter security fence, electricity and water systems.
Ms Amani added that the second phase costing 194.4bn/- covers the construction of the passenger terminal building, control tower, fire and rescue station, power generation building, meteorological building, fire hydrant tower and procurement of five fire engines.
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She noted that compensation for affected residents has been completed at 100 per cent, with the government disbursing 15.2bn/- to 1,919 people who vacated the project area.
“As supervisors of this project, Tanroads will ensure the contractor delivers quality finishing and value for money. Our goal is to make the airport fully operational by May this year while finalising the fuel upload systems,” she said.
Representing the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA), Airport Manager Clemence Mbaruku said preparations for service provision are already underway, noting that 170 staff have been relocated to the new airport ahead of operations.
