Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has directed all regional managers of the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) to carry out thorough inspections of bridges and culvert openings in their respective regions before and after the rainy season, ensuring water can flow freely without damaging the roads.
Speaking on April 16, 2025, during a visit to Lindi Region where he assessed rain-damaged road infrastructure, Majaliwa emphasized the importance of preventive measures to safeguard national transport networks.
He expressed satisfaction with the response efforts underway, led by a team of engineers from the Ministry of Works and TANROADS, to restore road connectivity.
“It is the duty of every TANROADS manager to ensure that all culverts and bridges are properly inspected. The drainage systems must allow water to pass through easily. Funds allocated for the inspection of these structures must be used accordingly,” he stressed.
The Prime Minister instructed the TANROADS Regional Manager in Lindi and his team to remain stationed in the affected areas to monitor the situation closely and offer immediate support in case of any emergency.
He noted that several sections of the Dar es Salaam–Lindi highway had suffered severe damage due to floodwaters originating from heavy rainfall in Morogoro Region.
The water flows through the Selous Game Reserve before draining into the Indian Ocean, overwhelming existing infrastructure along the route.
On behalf of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, Majaliwa extended his sympathies to the residents of Lindi, Mtwara, and Ruvuma regions who have been inconvenienced by the transport disruptions.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the continuity of transport and logistics services across the country, regardless of weather challenges.
The Prime Minister also urged citizens to continue supporting contractors and promptly report any road-related issues to the relevant authorities.
“The government is working around the clock to ensure no region is left isolated due to infrastructure failures,” he assured.
Looking ahead, Majaliwa reiterated the government’s long-term vision to upgrade the entire Dar es Salaam–Lindi highway to tarmac standard, stretching all the way to Mnazi Mmoja in Lindi Region.
Meanwhile, Minister for Works Abdallah Ulega announced that TSh 130 billion has been approved for the construction of key bridges in Lindi Region.
Among the projects is the Somanga–Mtama Bridge (M60), currently under construction by M/S Hunan Construction Engineering. The project, which costs TSh 12 billion, has so far received TSh 4.1 billion—equivalent to 36 percent of the total cost.