Prime
Tanzania completes construction of East Africa's longest bridge
What you need to know:
- Constructed entirely using over Sh700 billion from domestic sources, the bridge stands as one of the most ambitious infrastructure undertakings in Tanzania’s history.
Dar es Salaam. The government has officially announced the completion of the JP Magufuli Bridge, a major infrastructure project that promises to significantly transform transport and trade in the Lake Zone and beyond.
Stretching 3 kilometers across Lake Victoria and supported by 1.66 kilometers of connecting roads, the Kigongo–Busisi bridge—named in honour of the late President John Pombe Magufuli—is now the longest bridge in East and Central Africa.
Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, who toured the completed structure on Monday, confirmed that President Samia Suluhu Hassan is scheduled to inaugurate the bridge on June 19, 2025.
“This is a proud moment for our nation. I urge citizens to turn out in large numbers to welcome the Head of State during the official opening,” said the Prime Minister.
Constructed entirely using over Sh700 billion from domestic sources, the bridge stands as one of the most ambitious infrastructure undertakings in Tanzania’s history. The Minister for Works, Abdallah Ulega, described the project as a flagship achievement under the Sixth Phase Government.
“The JP Magufuli Bridge is a testament to our nation’s ability to mobilize internal resources for transformative development,” said Ulega. “It will ease movement between Kigongo and Busisi, reduce reliance on ferry transport, and unlock economic potential across the Lake Zone.”
The bridge is strategically positioned to enhance regional integration, linking Tanzania with neighbouring countries including Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In tandem with the bridge, the government is also pushing ahead with road projects such as the 54.5-kilometre Sengerema–Nyehunge and 32-kilometre Kamanga–Sengerema roads, which are expected to bolster trade and improve access to essential services for communities in the region.
The official opening of the bridge in June is expected to draw nationwide attention as a symbol of progress, resilience, and the government’s continued commitment to infrastructure-led development.
