DAR ES SALAAM: As 2024 comes to a close, Tanzania stands tall, celebrating a monumental achievement that bridges its past with its future.
The completion and launch of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) marks not only a milestone in infrastructure development but also a legacy for generations to come.
This project is more than just an infrastructure success; it is a testament to the nation’s vision and determination to modernize and progress.
The SGR project began as a bold vision a dream shared by three Tanzanian presidents: President Jakaya Kikwete, the late President John Magufuli, and the current President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Laying the groundwork
The fourth-phase president, Dr Jakaya Kikwete, spearheaded the feasibility study for the project, while the late fifth-phase president, Dr. John Magufuli, fully embarked on its execution. In 2017, Dr. Magufuli laid the foundation stone for the SGR project, initiating what would become one of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure endeavors.
With the collaboration of Turkish firm Yapi Merkezi and Portuguese firm Mota-Engil Africa, the project gained momentum, envisioning a 1,457-kilometer railway connecting Dar es Salaam to Lake Victoria, serving as a vital artery for commerce and social progress.
First Phase: Dar es Salaam to Morogoro
In mid-June 2024, a turning point was reached with the launch of the first phase of the railway connecting Dar es Salaam to Morogoro. The modern electric train service, designed to reduce travel time from three hours to just one, immediately captured public attention.
Citizens who boarded the sleek, quiet trains described the experience as transformative, ushering in a new era of fast, reliable, and affordable transport. The service connected urban centers and created new economic opportunities for communities along the route, symbolizing progress, efficiency, and a brighter future.
A Grand Celebration: Dar to Dodoma
On August 2, 2024, the second phase of the SGR, linking Dar es Salaam to Dodoma, was inaugurated by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The journey, which once took up to nine hours, was reduced to just three hours and 35 minutes—a remarkable 60% reduction in travel time. President Samia led the maiden trip, boarding the electric train in Dar es Salaam and stopping at key stations, including Pugu, Ngerengere, and Morogoro, to greet citizens.
The train arrived in Dodoma to a warm and jubilant reception, where the President emphasized the railway’s significance as a symbol of national pride and progress.
Over 2,000 passengers, including government leaders, joined the inaugural journey, celebrating a nation’s collective effort and resilience.
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Impact on Communities:
Communities along the railway route are already benefiting, with traders, farmers, and entrepreneurs gaining easier access to markets and resources. The project serves as a lifeline for economic development, connecting urban and rural areas like never before.
On November 2, 2024, Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) launched the Electric Multiple Unit (EMU) train service between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma. TRC Director General Mr. Masanja Kadogosa revealed that the SGR now transports 9,000 to 10,000 passengers daily.
In recognition of the presidents’ contributions to the project, the main stations were named in their honor: Dar es Salaam Station as Magufuli Station, Morogoro as Jakaya Kikwete Station, and Makutopora Dodoma as Samia Station.
Looking ahead
While 2024 celebrates what has been achieved, the SGR’s ultimate vision is far from complete. The project aims to connect Dar es Salaam to Mwanza and beyond, covering the country with modern rail infrastructure.
With a planned investment of 23.3 trillion/- over five years, the SGR will enhance Tanzania’s position as a regional trade hub, linking neighboring countries and fostering cross-border economic collaboration.
During the official launch of SGR electric train services between Dar es Salaam and Dodoma, Minister for Transport Prof. Makame Mbarawa announced that the government had already paid 6.3 trillion/- of the total project cost.
