Delivering Dira 2050 via Tanzania’s new infrastructure agenda

By Mohamed Besta   

Tanzania is in a strong season of infrastructure expansion. Over recent years, strategic investment in roads, bridges and national corridors has opened up regions that were once difficult to reach, eased the movement of people and goods and strengthened national unity. Under the direction of national leadership, these efforts have connected farms to markets, supported tourism, improved access to social services and reinforced Tanzania’s position as an important gateway in Eastern and Southern Africa.

Dira 2050 builds on this momentum and provides the long term national direction that aligns naturally with the work already being done in the roads sub-sector. It calls for a future where Tanzania is resilient, productive and prosperous, and where infrastructure continues to support that journey.

The Vision places integrated logistics, climate readiness, digital evolution, reliable energy and stronger human capabilities at the centre of the next phase of development. For TANROADS, this creates a supportive and forward looking framework for ongoing and future projects.

Today, Tanzania manages a large and strategically important classified road network. National trunk and regional roads under TANROADS form a backbone that links ports, airports, border posts, mining areas, agricultural zones and fast growing urban centres.

District and urban roads, managed in close coordination with other institutions, extend that reach to rural communities and local service points. Together, these investments have boosted internal trade, reduced travel times and opened new economic opportunities across the country.

Dira 2050 identifies five catalytic drivers that will support its implementation: integrated logistics, energy, science and technology, research and development and digital transformation. Roads and bridges play a practical role in each of these areas. Integrated logistics relies on corridors that are reliable from end to end.

Energy programmes depend on good road access to power stations, transmission lines and construction sites. Modern engineering methods and materials reflect advances in science and technology.

Research and planning improve when data from the national network is captured and used effectively. Digital transformation becomes stronger when intelligent transport systems and real time monitoring tools are applied to traffic management and maintenance.

The Vision rests on three major pillars. These are a strong and inclusive economy, human capability and social development, and environmental integrity with climate resilience. The work of TANROADS aligns naturally with each one.

By improving trade routes and strengthening regional connectivity, the road network contributes directly to economic competitiveness. By keeping health facilities, schools and markets accessible, roads quietly support human development and social progress. By incorporating better drainage, strong embankments and climate ready designs, infrastructure projects help protect the environment and reduce vulnerability to extreme weather.

Urbanisation is reshaping the country at a fast pace. Cities and emerging towns are becoming centres of industry, finance, innovation and culture. This growth makes well planned urban and inter urban roads essential for business and daily life.

The continuous improvement of bypasses, major junctions and regional links is easing traffic pressure, improving safety and supporting the flow of goods between urban centres and outlying areas. These developments are in harmony with the broad goals outlined in Dira 2050, which highlights the importance of sustainable and climate conscious urban planning.

Good governance remains a strong national priority. The Vision emphasises integrity, accountability and public trust across all sectors. In the roads subsector, this is reflected in close supervision and a consistent focus on quality.

Every completed project strengthens confidence among citizens, partners and investors that public resources are being used responsibly and with long term impact in mind.

Dira 2050 also recognises the central role of women, youth and persons with disabilities in national development. TANROADS increasingly reflects this by improving pedestrian facilities, expanding safe crossings, integrating disability friendly designs and supporting the participation of local contractors, engineers and suppliers.

As Tanzania moves forward, the progress already achieved in the infrastructure programme provides a strong base for future growth. The roads and bridges built today are already supporting trade, social services and regional cooperation.

With Dira 2050 offering clear national direction, TANROADS remains committed to strengthening and safeguarding the national road network in a way that supports a resilient, connected and prosperous Tanzania.

Mohamed Besta is Chief Executive, TANROADS