The African Development Bank (AfDB) has committed US $2.5 billion to develop priority infrastructure projects in Tanzania, with over 70% allocated to
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has committed US $2.5 billion to develop priority infrastructure projects in Tanzania, with over 70% allocated to transport infrastructure such as roads, railways, and airports.
A significant portion of this funding is designated for the Tanzanian section of the multinational Bagamoyo–Pangani–Tanga–Horohoro/Lunga Lunga–Mombasa–Malindi road, which is part of the Coastal Transport Corridor of East Africa, extending from Lamu in Kenya to Mtwara in Tanzania. The AfDB has earmarked US$100 million for this project, aiming to reduce the travel distance between Dar es Salaam and Tanga by approximately 90 km, thereby saving over an hour of travel time and providing an alternative route to the Central Corridor.
Fostering economic growth
“Other priority projects being implemented through AfDB funding include the Nyakanazi – Kabingo – Kasulu – Kumnazi road in western Tanzania, Mawala – Masasi road in southern Tanzania, Tabora – Kigoma – Uvinza railway that will go all the way up to Musongati in Burundi, and the Dodoma (Msalato) International Airport in Dodoma,” said Eng. Mumina Wa-Kyendo, the Chief Transport Engineer at the AfDB Tanzania Country Office based in Dar es Salaam.
This initiative underscores the AfDB’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity, facilitating trade, and fostering economic growth in East Africa. The successful implementation of these projects is expected to significantly improve transport efficiency and promote regional integration.
Eng. Robert Achieng, speaking on behalf of the EAC Secretary General, Hon. Veronica M. Nduva, reaffirmed the EAC’s commitment to developing ten multinational corridors, particularly the three principal ones: Central Corridor, Northern Corridor, and LAPSSET Corridor.