The Tanzanian government has set aside TZS 840 billion (about USD 325 million) to repair roads, bridges, and culverts damaged by El-Nino rains and Cyclone Hidaya.
The Minister of Works, Innocent Bashungwa, said on Thursday (August 22) that preparations for these projects are ongoing.
Bashungwa explained that the El-Nino rains, which fell from September 2023 to April 2024, caused severe damage to roads and bridges. The government previously released TZS 72.1 billion for emergency repairs in areas where transport was completely cut off.
The Minister spoke before the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Infrastructure, where he shared the government's plan for fixing the damaged infrastructure.
“We have prioritized the construction of bridges and culverts because, during heavy rains, roads can often remain passable, but when a bridge or culvert is destroyed, it completely cuts off communication,” he said.
He added that the government is looking for more funds to ensure all damaged infrastructure is repaired. According to assessments, about TZS 1.07 trillion is needed for full restoration.
Bashungwa also directed the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) to reassess old road designs to ensure future repairs match current needs, including changes in the environment and population growth.
The Chairman of the Infrastructure Committee, Hon. Selemani Kakoso, urged the Ministry to involve local Members of Parliament in the reconstruction projects. He said this would ensure that the repairs meet the real needs of the affected areas.
Kakoso also asked the Ministry to oversee TANROADS and the Road Fund Board (RFB) closely to find new revenue sources for future road and bridge projects.
