Dodoma’s Msalato Airport Set for Completion by 2025

Msalato International Airport Nears Completion as Construction Reaches 85%

Dodoma, March 12, 2025 – The construction of Msalato International Airport in Dodoma is making significant progress, with the runway now 85 percent complete, while work on the passenger terminal buildings has reached 51 percent.

Following a site visit on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, Augustino Vuma, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Investment and Public Assets (PIC), provided an update on the project's status. He emphasized that the airport is a crucial infrastructure development for Tanzania, with the construction of passenger terminal buildings estimated at Sh190 billion and the runway at Sh160 billion.

Major Milestone for Dodoma's Aviation Growth

During his inspection, Vuma expressed confidence in the pace and quality of the work. He underscored the significance of the project, which, once completed, will accommodate larger aircraft such as the Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, capable of carrying up to 350 passengers.

"We have witnessed the progress firsthand, and it is evident that substantial work has been done. Seeing is believing—paperwork alone is not enough. If the project is completed on time, it will provide great benefits to Tanzanians, who are eagerly awaiting its completion," Vuma stated.

He further praised the Ministry of Transport and the Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanroads), which are overseeing the project, for their effective coordination. Vuma assured that the committee remains committed to ensuring the airport is completed within the set timeframe, emphasizing that the contractor is adhering to both deadlines and quality standards.

Tanroads Affirms Commitment to Quality and Timely Completion

Providing additional updates, Tanroads CEO Mohamed Besta confirmed that the project is progressing smoothly and that steps are being taken to implement recommendations from the parliamentary committee.

"I commend the President for continuously providing financial support for this project. Tanroads will ensure that contractors adhere to the required quality standards and timelines," Besta said.

The first phase of the airport's construction is designed to support international flights and significantly boost economic activity in Dodoma Region. Its completion will enhance connectivity, improve trade, and strengthen Tanzania’s position as a regional transportation hub.

Funding and Completion Timeline

The African Development Bank (AfDB) is a major financial partner in the project, having signed a $329.29 million loan agreement with the Tanzanian government in February 2020 to fund the construction.

According to the project timeline:

• The runway is set to be completed by April 2025.
• The passenger terminal buildings are expected to be finished by July 2025.

Once operational, Msalato International Airport is expected to transform air travel in Tanzania, offering enhanced passenger and cargo handling capacity while fostering economic development in the region.