Sh20bn Magomeni housing project suffer delays

        Dar es Salaam. Magomeni housing estate in Dar es Salaam has suffered delays owing to high cost of construction material, it has been revealed.

The Sh20 billion project which was meant to be completed last September is now projected to end in March, 2018, a six months delay.

The project is being undertaken by Tanzania Building Agency (TBA) whose project coordinator Mr Anthony Ndendya blamed the delay on scarcity of construction equipment and the exorbitant cost of leasing them.

Construction of the 644 units in the high density area was launched by President John Magufuli in April 2016 following a decision by the government to take over its implementation from the Kinondoni municipality.

President Magufuli asked TBA to ensure the project was completed within the set deadline but it was apparent yesterday during a tour of the site that more time will be needed before targeted city dwellers enjoy their new homes.

Deputy Minister of Works, Transport and Communication Elias Kwandikwa who inspected the housing units said he was impressed with progress on site despite the delay.

Mr Kwandikwa said it was encouraging to hear of plans to ensure more local participation in the project that will accommodate 644 families. Some 600 sub-contractors are working on the project.

In arresting the challenges, Mr Ndendya said they have recently secured an affordable supplier and bought own modern trans mixer machine to facilitate the work.

On his part, TBA Chief Executive Officer Elius Mwakalinga said the agency is taking crucial measures to ensure the project is accomplished by the new deadline.

He explained that the project concept was to provide cheap housing for Dar residents. “That is why the pricing for material must be below those of private developers,” he said, adding that TBA role in the real estate sub-sector has seen a lower trend in costs.