TANROADS Launches Trio Bridges for Katavi–Rukwa Link

Major TANROADS Bridge Projects to Boost Connectivity in Katavi and Rukwa

Katavi, Tanzania – April 2, 2025:
The Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) is undertaking a transformative infrastructure initiative aimed at strengthening transport connectivity between Katavi and Rukwa regions through the construction of three strategic bridges. The project, funded by the World Bank and valued at 17.28 billion Tanzanian shillings, forms a critical part of the Western Corridor Road Network.

Set to link key areas within the Southern Highland Zone, the trio of bridges will dramatically improve access to Mpimbwe District Council, the Rift Valley, and the agriculturally rich Lake Rukwa Basin. Officials anticipate the enhanced road links will not only ensure year-round mobility but also unlock economic opportunities across the region.

Speaking on the significance of the initiative, TANROADS’ Acting Regional Manager for Katavi, Engineer Albert Lazier, emphasized that the project will enable smooth movement of goods and services throughout the year, thus supporting economic development in the region.

“Contractors are working around the clock under TANROADS’ supervision to complete these urgent infrastructure projects,” said Eng. Lazier.

The bridge construction is being executed by three different contractors across separate sites:

• Katumba Bridge: A 55-meter structure on the Sitalike–Lymba lya Mfipa road, being built by MS Mselem Civil Engineering Co. Ltd., at a cost of 9.1 billion/-.

• Mirumba Bridge: Spanning 60 meters on the Kitete–Kibaoni road, this bridge is under construction by MS Safari General Business Co. Ltd. in collaboration with Ms. Mbuya Construction Co. Ltd., with a contract worth 6.39 billion/-.

• Kilinda Bridge and Box Culverts: Constructed by MS Fau Construction Company in joint venture with Four Brothers and Sisters Co. Ltd., the project includes a bridge on the Sitalike–Kibaoni–Kisesa road and 16 box culverts on the Majimoto–Kisesa road, at a total cost of 1.78 billion/-.

Upon completion within the targeted 12-month timeframe, the infrastructure is expected to greatly improve logistics for agricultural produce, particularly rice from the Lake Rukwa Basin, thereby boosting regional trade. Increased market access is projected to spur local commerce, attract investment, and enhance business activities.

Additionally, the development will generate employment, facilitate better service delivery, and strengthen economic integration across the Southern Highland Zone, linking it more effectively to Tanzania’s broader economy.

During a recent inspection in January, Deputy Minister for Works, Engineer Godfrey Kasekenya, instructed TANROADS to maintain strict oversight, ensuring contractors adhere to quality standards and complete the project within the allocated budget and timeline.