The 73km Kahama-Kakola road affirms stronger trade between Shinyanga, Geita and Kagera regions

SHINYANGA: THE  Construction of the 73-kilometre Kahama–Ulyahulu Junction–Kakola road has reached 88.1 per cent, raising prospects for stronger trade and easier movement between Shinyanga, Geita and Kagera regions.

The road, which is being upgraded to bitumen standard, is expected to unlock economic opportunities in agriculture, mining, livestock keeping and forestry while improving the movement of people and goods across the areas it traverses.

This was revealed by the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) Shinyanga Development Projects Unit Supervisor Engineer John Kalando stating that 36.075 kilometres of the road have already been paved.

Elaborating, he said that the project starts at Manzese and passes through Kahama and Ilogi before reaching Kakola, describing it as a strategic infrastructure project with the potential to accelerate economic and social development in the region.

ALSO READ: Gas pipeline opens new industrial energy market

“Completion of the road will open up more opportunities in agriculture, mining, livestock and forestry, while making transportation of people and goods easier,” he said.

According to the Engineer, the project is being implemented by the government with funding from Barrick, under the supervision of consulting engineers from TECU Shinyanga and construction by China-based contractor CCECC.

Additionally, he said that as part of the project, a total of 206 streetlights will be installed in Manzese, Karagwa, Ntobo, Segese, Lunguya, Ilogi, Kakola and Bugalawa.

“The lighting is expected to improve road safety at night, stimulate business activities and enhance the attractiveness of the growing centres,” he said.