Tanzania allocates 45bn/- to restore bridges affected by El Niño rains

KAGERA: THE Tanzanian government has allocated over 45bn/- for the construction of five permanent bridges in Kagera Region, which were previously damaged by seasonal rains, causing significant challenges.

The Kagera Regional Manager of the Tanzania Roads Agency (TANROADS), Engineer Joel Samwel Mwambungu, accompanied by all staff, conducted an inspection of five emergency bridge construction projects being carried out in Muleba and Bukoba Districts, following the effects of the heavy El Niño rains experienced in 2024.

The projects involve the construction of Kanono Bridge, which is 100 percent complete, Kyanyabasa Bridge at 77 percent, Kamishango Bridge at 98 percent, Kyetema Bridge at 77 percent, and Karebe Bridge at 73 percent completion.

Speaking during the inspection, Engineer Mwambungu expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of the projects, while instructing contractors to ensure that all projects are completed by February 20 this year as planned.

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He explained that the government continues to implement these projects to address the challenge of disrupted road communications, especially during the rainy season, where some areas have suffered from impassable roads for many years, causing difficulties for residents.

The completion of these bridges will significantly boost social and economic activities, improve the transportation of agricultural products and other services, accelerate development for the residents of the affected areas, and connect them with other regions.