Tanzanian road contractor fosters collaboration with the UK
British High Commissioner to Tanzania, Ms Marianne Young, being briefed by Mecco officials during her recent visit to the Fumba–Kisauni construction site
Unguja. Mwananchi Engineering and Contracting Company Limited (MECCO), one of Tanzania’s oldest and most experienced local contractors, is set to play a key role in the construction of major road infrastructure projects across Zanzibar’s Unguja.
The roadworks are part of a €422 million (approximately Sh1.2 trillion) financing package supported by the United Kingdom’s export credit agency, UK Export Finance (UKEF), in what is one of the largest infrastructure investments in Zanzibar’s history.
The British-backed initiative reflects a strengthening partnership between the UK and Tanzania in infrastructure development, with the primary aim of boosting connectivity, safety, and economic activity throughout the isles.
British High Commissioner to Tanzania, Ms Marianne Young, recently visited the Fumba–Kisauni construction site in the Unguja West Urban Region to assess progress and spotlight the role of Tanzanian contractors in delivering high-value projects.
“With over 50 years of experience, MECCO is one of the oldest and largest private Tanzanian companies,” the British High Commission noted.
The UKEF-funded projects involve upgrading roads which include Fumba–Kisauni Road (12 km), and Tunguu–Makunduchi Road (48 km).
Each of these roads will be expanded into four-lane dual carriageways and fitted with street lighting and pedestrian walkways to alleviate congestion, improve safety, and enhance access to essential services and tourism destinations.
“This collaboration is not just about roads—it’s about equipping our local workforce with new skills and ensuring Tanzanian contractors remain at the forefront of development,” said a MECCO spokesperson.
The projects are aligned with Zanzibar’s Vision 2050, a long-term development blueprint focused on sustainable infrastructure and inclusive economic growth. Upgraded road networks are expected to stimulate trade, expand tourism potential, and attract investment into underserved areas of the islands.
As Zanzibar continues its rapid transformation, the involvement of local companies like MECCO highlights the growing capacity of Tanzanian firms to deliver on complex, large-scale infrastructure projects with international standards.
