TARURA launches a 24.4bn/- project to upgrade roads in Moshi Municipality

MOSHI: THE Tanzanian government has launched a major infrastructure drive to expand paved roads and end flooding in Moshi Municipality, with a 24.4bn/- project expected to boost transport, trade and urban mobility.

The project implemented by the Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) under the Tanzania Cities Transforming Infrastructure and Competitiveness (TACTIC) project will add 14 kilometres of tarmac roads alongside the construction and rehabilitation of stormwater drainage systems.

This was revealed by the TACTIC Project Coordinator for Moshi Municipality, Engineer Daniel Kileo, who said the project will be a game changer for the town’s economic and social landscape.

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“This project is a major relief to our municipality. The construction of 14 kilometres of tarmac roads will not only beautify the town but also improve mobility, reduce traffic congestion and stimulate business activities,” he said.

Additionally, he noted that key components include the construction of the 1.9-kilometre Kibong’oto drainage channel in Kilimanjaro ward, as well as a 2.02-kilometre drainage system along the Ushirika College–Kizz Hotel–Moshi Pazuri road, aimed at eliminating persistent flooding in residential areas.

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The project, funded through a concessional loan from the World Bank, is scheduled for completion within 15 months by January 24, 2027, and has so far reached five per cent implementation.

Among the roads to be upgraded are the Ruwaichi–Njoro road (6.85 km), linking Ng’ambo, Msaranga, Mji Mpya and Njoro wards; the 1.25-kilometre Pepsi road connecting Kaloleni and Njoro; and the Shirima Tunda–Magereza road (5.089 km), which connects Karanga and Shirima Tunda.

TARURA Moshi District Technician, Joyce Kapelo, said the municipality currently has 105 kilometres of paved roads, which will increase to 119 kilometres upon completion of the project, significantly improving access to social and economic services.

Shirima Tunda Ward Councillor, Francis Shio, welcomed the development, noting that the Shirima Tunda–Magereza road is a key route toward Arusha and will open up more business and service opportunities once completed.

Residents have also expressed optimism over the project’s impact. Ng’ambo resident, Mtui Jacob, said roads were previously impassable during the rainy season, forcing people to walk up to four kilometres to access the town centre.

Meanwhile, Msaranga trader, Lucy Macha, said the tarmac roads and planned street lighting will attract more customers, enable longer business hours and improve security in the area.

The project is part of broader efforts to modernise urban infrastructure and enhance service delivery in fast-growing municipalities across the country.