Tanzania’s National Assembly has approved a 2.5 trillion shilling budget for the Ministry of Works, marking a major step in strengthening the country’s transport infrastructure.

The funding will mainly go towards strategic road construction, bridge development, and new financing mechanisms aimed at improving national connectivity and boosting economic activities.

During the budget debate in Dodoma, Minister for Works Abdallah Ulega highlighted government plans to complete major economic corridors, dual carriageways, and key bridges that support cargo transport across the country.

He noted that under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership, Tanzania has already constructed over 1,400 kilometres of tarmac roads and several important bridges, while nearly 80 ongoing contracts worth around 6 trillion shillings are currently being implemented nationwide.The government has also prioritised finishing existing projects before starting new ones.

Special focus has been placed on improving road networks in southern regions, with several trunk roads targeted for upgrading, including routes connecting Mkuranga, Kongowe, Ikwiriri, Nyamwage, Somanga, and Nangurukuru to Mbwemkuru.

A major 600 billion shilling allocation has been set aside for the Mnazi Mmoja–Mingoyo–Masasi–Mtwara rural circular road project, which will enhance regional connectivity and install over 3,000 street lights along 70 kilometres, improving safety in more than 30 villages.Additionally, strategic roads like Singida–Babati are planned for dual carriageway expansion.To ensure sustainable funding, the government is introducing infrastructure bonds and strengthening the Road Fund system.Emergency repairs have also been supported with 20 billion shillings allocated to TARURA for pothole rehabilitation.The plan further includes upgrades in Arusha ahead of AFCON, improving access roads to stadium areas and key transport corridors.