Tanzania building roads and bridges with own resources, says minister

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is increasingly relying on its own resources—particularly revenue collected through domestic taxation—to fund major infrastructure projects, including roads and bridges, a move the government says is aimed at driving inclusive development and improving mobility across the country.

This was said by the Minister for Works, Mr Abdallah Ulega, during the Mwananchi Thought Leadership Forum (MTLF) held on Sunday in Dar es Salaam under the theme “Seeking Solutions Together.”

Mr Ulega said the government, under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, is committed to transforming the country’s transport infrastructure through local innovation, homegrown financial solutions, and enhanced citizen engagement.

“The aim is to ensure that our country’s development is not held back by outdated infrastructure, but instead built on modern roads and bridges that enable safe, quick, and reliable movement,” he said.

He noted that infrastructure development has become a cornerstone of national progress, as it helps connect communities, ease trade, and raise living standards—especially in underserved areas.

Mr Ulega said the progress achieved so far is a testament to the government's decision to finance projects using local revenues, especially those collected by the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA).

Citing the John Pombe Magufuli Bridge as a key milestone, the minister said:

“The infrastructure we see today has been built using our own money. This includes bridges and roads completed in recent years. These are not donor-funded—they are Tanzanian-funded.”

He further reminded participants of the country's humble beginnings:

“During the colonial period, there was only one paved road—linking Dar es Salaam and Morogoro, used primarily for transporting sisal to Tanga via Korogwe. The rest of our road network has been developed post-independence, and largely by Tanzanians themselves.”

According to the minister, a total of 1,365.85 kilometres of roads have been completed to date, with many more projects underway in various regions.

In illustrating the impact of improved infrastructure, Mr Ulega pointed to the case of Geita residents, who previously relied on ferry transport—often waiting up to two hours—to access health services in Sengerema.

“With an investment of Sh700 billion, we’ve improved road connectivity and cut travel time dramatically. This has enhanced access to essential services and improved quality of life,” he said.

The minister also praised public-private partnerships in infrastructure, citing collaboration with Bakhresa Group to enhance ferry services in Kigamboni, Dar es Salaam.

Despite the successes, Mr Ulega acknowledged persistent challenges, including climate-related threats such as flooding, which often damage infrastructure and disrupt transport networks.

He stressed the need to build climate-resilient systems and develop a pipeline of skilled, reliable local contractors. Women, he said, are now receiving greater opportunities in the construction sector.

“We’ve awarded contracts to several firms in Songwe and other regions, giving local companies, especially those led by young professionals and women, the chance to build their capacity and contribute to national growth.”

Mr Ulega highlighted the example of a 35-year-old Tanzanian engineer, a University of Dar es Salaam graduate, who successfully oversaw the design and completion of a major bridge project.

Looking ahead, the minister reaffirmed the government’s vision to fully fund and execute infrastructure projects locally.

“Our long-term goal is to make flood-related disruptions, such as those experienced in Jangwani, a thing of the past,” he said.

“When we build roads and bridges, we are not just laying tarmac; we are building the future of our country.”