Deputy Minister PORALG Zainabu Katimba. Photo: Courtesy
By Catherine Sungura
Kigoma--The government has significantly increased the budget for the Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (Tarura) from Sh 275 billion to Sh 710 billion over the past three years under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The Deputy Minister of the President’s Office for Regional Administration and Local Government, Zainabu Katimba, announced the budget increase, totaling 158.18%, during the recent signing ceremony for the construction of Kigoma Municipality’s Mwanga Main Market and Katonga Fish Market.
Katimba emphasized that this expanded budget will support the implementation of critical infrastructure projects across the country. Responding to recent natural disasters, such as the El Niño rains and Cyclone Hidaya, which caused extensive road damage, the government has also boosted Tarura’s emergency fund from Sh 21 billion to Sh 254.3 billion, marking a 1,110.9% increase.
“President Samia’s commitment to improving road infrastructure is evident,” Katimba stated, noting that road networks play a crucial role in connecting communities, delivering public services, and facilitating the transportation of goods vital to economic growth.
She added that these infrastructure developments align with the goals of the 2020–2025 CCM Manifesto, specifically highlighted in paragraph 57 on page 82, underscoring the government’s dedication to enhancing the quality of life for Tanzanians.