TACTIC injects 33bn/- into upgrading roads, markets and coastal infrastructure

TANGA: THE government’s Tanga City transformation is set for a major economic and social shift as the Tanzania Cities Transformation and Infrastructure Development Project (TACTIC) injects over 33bn/- into upgrading roads, markets and coastal infrastructure.

Tanga City Director, Engineer Juma Hamsini, said the project presents a significant opportunity to reshape the city’s economy through improved transport networks, modern markets and upgraded beach facilities.

He said Phase One includes the construction of 4.4 kilometres of tarmac roads, a major drainage system covering Maweni Ward and flood-prone areas, and a project management building.

Phase Two will focus on the construction of Makorora Market, the Deep Sea fish market in Chumbageni Ward, and the upgrading of the Raskazone beachfront in Central Ward.

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Hamsini said the investments will transform the city’s economic landscape, allowing businesses to operate even at night through improved street lighting, increasing property values, creating jobs, reducing flooding through improved drainage, and boosting municipal revenue through expanded market activity.

TACTIC Project Coordinator in Tanga, Engineer Juma Jumanne, said the World Bank-funded initiative also includes the construction of Tangasisi Road 2 (2.7km), Magomeni Road (1.7km), the 10-kilometre Kange–Mwarongo drainage channel, and installation of 600 street lights.

Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) Tanga District Manager, Engineer Boniface Mwambene, said the project will expand the city’s paved road network from 101 kilometres to over 105 kilometres, improving connectivity in Tangasisi, Masiwani, Duga, Mwanzange and Mbugani wards.

Local leaders and stakeholders welcomed the project, saying it will directly improve livelihoods. Raskazone street chairperson Miriam Kiwambo said the beachfront development will create jobs for young people, attract visitors and boost business activity.

Fisheries Chairperson in Tanga Region, Bael Wadhir, praised the construction of the Deep Sea fish market, saying it will end long-standing operational challenges facing traders.

Makorora market trader Musa Karata said the new market will replace poor trading conditions marked by mud, insecurity and low customer turnout, expressing optimism that improved facilities will attract more customers and grow businesses.