PM orders project completion ahead of El Niño
KATAVI: PRIME Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has directed authorities in the country to fast-track completion of critical infrastructure ahead of the anticipated El Niño rains, warning that unfinished works could worsen flooding risks.
Dr Nchemba issued the directive yesterday during celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Mpanda, held in Katavi Region.
The Premier said that ongoing and incomplete infrastructure projects could expose communities to serious challenges if heavy rains begin before their completion.
“We have been warned that El Niño rains could occur in our country and the period is not far away. I urge all responsible authorities to take precautionary measures while wananchi continue to pray for the nation,” he said.
Citing Mpanda Municipality as an example, the Prime Minister said he had observed several roads left excavated during construction, a situation that could disrupt transport and endanger residents during heavy rains.
He directed regional authorities to work closely with the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) and the Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) to ensure that all ongoing road works are completed on time.
“As I travelled through Mpanda, I saw roads that remain unfinished. Let the rains not find us unprepared. Authorities must act now to complete these projects,” he stressed.
Dr Nchemba further ordered that drainage systems and bridges be prioritised to prevent rainwater from flooding residential areas, noting that poor drainage remains a major risk during heavy downpours.
He also called for the speedy completion of key road projects linking Mpanda with Rukwa and Mishamo, warning contractors against delays despite having already received funds.
“Contractors must stop giving excuses and complete the work. These projects are essential for wananchi to access services and for economic activities to continue smoothly,” he said.
On water supply, the Prime Minister directed contractors handling the long-delayed Mpanda water project to ensure that residents have access to reliable water services by December this year.
He also addressed electricity connectivity challenges in newly upgraded urban areas, instructing the Rural Energy Agency (REA) to collaborate with the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) to ensure eligible residents are connected at the subsidised rural rate of 27,000/-.
Earlier, Dr Nchemba pledged 50m/- towards the construction of offices and a hall for the Catholic Diocese of Mpanda, reaffirming the government’s commitment under President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan to continue working with religious institutions in national development.
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The event marked the 25th anniversary of the Catholic Diocese of Mpanda, which was established in 2001 and currently serves communities in Katavi, southern Kigoma and Rukwa regions.
Speaking at the event, Bishop Eusebius Nzigilwa expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for attending the celebrations, while the outgoing Apostolic Nuncio to Tanzania, Archbishop Angelo Accattino, underscored the importance of strengthening cooperation between the government and the Church.
Last week, Dr Nchemba assured citizens that the government is fully prepared to mitigate the impact of El Niño rains expected in several parts of the country.
He said authorities have been directed to strengthen drainage systems and address flood-prone areas to minimise damage to roads, homes and other key infrastructure.
The Premier said the government had taken the warnings seriously and was implementing preventive measures, noting that the Lake Zone is among areas expected to receive heavy rainfall.
He added that regions such as Mwanza could start experiencing the rains towards the end of September or in October.
“The government is well prepared to ensure that areas likely to receive heavy rains have proper drainage systems to reduce the risk of flooding,” he said.
