Tanzania: Improving M&E in Tanzania – Mel Conference Insights

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Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems are essential for tracking development and performance, enhancing accountability and identifying lessons learned from the planning, execution and outcomes of policies, programmes and projects.

However, the government struggles to effectively monitor and evaluate development initiatives due to significant flaws in the existing M&E systems.

This year’s M&E industry met for a third time last week, September 17-20, 2024, in Zanzibar.

This national conference, established to assess the system further, was a testament to our integral role in advocating for positive outcomes in the nation’s usage of resources.

As a participant and an authority on M&E-related matters, I paid close attention to the explanations offered by each of the delegates who had the chance to speak about their subjects and the directives from the notable figures who were invited.

Of particular note were the opening remarks made by the second vice President of the Zanzibar Revolution Government, Hemed Suleiman Abdulla and the closing remarks made by Tanzania’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Dr Doto Biteko.

After reviewing the information presented by speakers and senior government officials, I have concluded that it’s crucial to address the challenges facing Tanzania’s effective monitoring and evaluation systems in the coming days.

By sharing my insights, I aim to ensure that the knowledge gained over these four days contributes to building a robust system that enables the country to make informed decisions about optimising resource allocation.

Based on my learnings from the conference, effective monitoring and evaluation systems encounter several challenges. I have briefly outlined the key issues that need to be addressed.

Tanzania has skilled M&E specialists, but the government’s ability to draw them into government systems needs to be improved by several issues, the most significant of which is the pay scale.

The salary range for government civil servants in Tanzania is not appealing to experts who can find better prospects in consultancy and non-governmental organisations.

For this reason, most third grade and lower government positions will continue to draw in only entry-level experts.

In part, Tanzania needs a robust M&E system because of the government’s ineffective structures and the absence of a national custodian of M&E functions.

No legal or policy framework or document requires any of the highest-level government agencies to take the lead in implementing M&E functions across the government; instead, the President’s Office or other appropriate authority within the Tanzanian government may act as the custodian of the country’s national M&E system.

The success and effectiveness of M&E systems, along with their findings and recommendations, largely depend on human resources and reporting structures.

Based on the conference discussions on establishing a comprehensive M&E system for the government, it appears that M&E functions are often positioned at lower organisational levels, lacking adequate funding and access to leadership and planners.

To address this, I recommend adopting more accessible approaches for setting up M&E systems. One effective strategy is the enclave model, which establishes an M&E system within a single entity that, if successful, can be replicated in other entities.

The government-wide and enclave models call for persistent lobbying, national champions and a national custodian with comparatively more power and influence.

Although efforts are hampered by the lack of national M&E legislation and a custodian for now, there may be other ways to attain capacity.

Although I have different views on many matters, after carefully evaluating every presentation at the conference, I can categorically say that an M&E system’s success depends on its ability to operate independently of laws, decrees and regulations.

However, the M&E culture, interaction with planning systems and demand for M&E data are more significant than passing legislation and regulations.

Since M&E is a relatively new phenomenon, the government sector has never used it effectively; instead, ad hoc data and assessments have remained necessary for policymakers and decision-makers to determine the current state of projects and programmes and to create strategic strategies.

For an effective outcome, quantitative facts and statistics must be considered because these provide insight and assessment of government reports and necessary interventions.

Even while M&E has grown in capacity, culture and demand over the past 20 years, there may still be a need for more interest in the field, particularly among parliamentarians, policymakers and decision-makers.

Low demand may result from a need for more awareness of the significance and worth of M&E data and difficulties in getting timely, useful information.

International lessons demonstrate that improving the supply and quality of M&E information requires demand.

Allocating enough resources has been mentioned as a problem for the effectiveness of M&E systems since it is a necessary component of effective M&E systems in the government and any other sector.

I welcome corrections, but as an analyst on the ground, I observe that effective monitoring and evaluation (M&E) often demands a substantial budget, particularly given the competing priorities within a limited government budget.

For instance, reviewing last year’s budget presentations, I noted that no funds were allocated specifically for assessments; instead, there was no distinct evaluation budget within the national budget.

Consequently, resource constraints mean that monitoring data collection will be limited to programme and implementation units, which often have weak verification functions at the national level.

Understanding the significance of the complete national level baseline statistics surrounding key indicators, objectives and national priorities is necessary to comprehend the elements of a functional M&E system.

Tanzania must produce such statistics sufficiently, as discussed during the conference.

All systems must still merge data from different streams into a single, all-inclusive national management information system.

The government’s low capacity to consistently report on the nation’s state, supported by high quality data and information, can be a severe cause for planning concerns.

The only approach to improving national goals and targets will be to base all policy efforts and programmes on reliable data and information as we prepare for the new National Vision 2050 plan.

Lack of such information and data could force one to rely on incomplete information, impacting the programme’s design, execution and outcomes.

Although the conference taught many lessons, one thing is essential to remember always: the quality and utilisation of data and information.

The usefulness of data and information determines its worth and significance during monitoring and assessment.

The idea that M&E has intrinsic worth is false.

It is crucial to recognise that the usability of M&E information improves its quality because it’s worth is instead tied to how the facts and information are used.

The existing M&E systems provide some data to improve decision-making, but they still need to be fully utilised to help make the best choice Tanzania has on the table.

I offer the following suggestions to raise Tanzania’s monitoring and assessment systems’ standing and functionality: First, let’s discuss capacity building. Improving M&E systems starts with increasing capacity. Two: Enhance usability and utility: High-quality data are necessary to enhance the usefulness and usability of M&E data and information.

Demand for such data will rise with utilisation focused M&E systems that adhere to stricter data quality standards.

Therefore, to maximise information use and effectively use the limited government resources, any effort to develop M&E systems should be utilisation-focused.

Also read: Monitoring and evaluation: Biteko calls for professionalism

Third, appropriate organisational structures and a national organisation should be created.

M&E needs the right amount of power and access to decision making channels to provide the intended outcomes.

The current M&E organisational structures at the line ministries and agencies should be reorganised to improve the function’s standing.

Lastly, a partnership changes everything: To provide a forum for introspection, discussion and knowledge exchange, M&E professionals from the public and commercial sectors, as well as organisations from civil society, should work to build the national M&E partnership and forum.

ZANEA and TANEA are ideal for contributing technical knowledge to these forums, but effort is needed to align government and development organisations’ M&E systems.

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania’s Maasai Women Adopt Climate-Smart Solutions to Tame Drought

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Mvomero, Tanzania — In the scorching sun of Mikese village in Tanzania’s eastern Mvomero district, 31-year-old Maria Naeku tirelessly tends to her small vegetable patch. Each time she pulls a weed, the red soil stains her hands as she guides the trickle of water from a maze of pipes through an elevated bed to nurture her plants. In a drought-stricken area, Naeku’s small garden is a lifeline for her family, giving them food and income.

“When the drought hit, our cattle died, and we couldn’t get milk for the children,” Naeku says. “I knew I had to find a way to feed my family, so I had to grow vegetables.”

The drip irrigation technique, where a network of pipes with tiny holes spit water directly to the plant in a split second, was new to her but she tried. “I didn’t know how if tiny drops of water could nourish the crops,” she says. “But when I saw green leaves sprouting from the soil, I knew I had a brighter future.”

Naeku’s quickly became an expert, her success inspired other women across the village to follow her lead. The Maasai, traditionally, known for cattle rearing–a symbol of wealth and security are increasingly adopting climate-smart farming to cope with drought as rains have become erratic due to climate change. Women like Naeku, who once depended entirely on these herds, have been forced to adopt innovative farming techniques to survive.

Shattering the Patriarchy

In Maasai culture, men have long held the reins of power, with women relegated to the roles of caregivers and homemakers. Decision-making, particularly in land and livestock matters, has traditionally been the exclusive domain of men. However, the severe droughts have shifted these dynamics. With their cattle dwindling and their families hungry, Maasai women have begun to step into roles once reserved for men, embracing climate-smart agriculture as an alternative means of survival.

“We are no longer just caretakers of our families,” says 34-year-old Nasarian Lengai, a mother of five who has become a local champion for horticulture farming at Mikese. “We are decision-makers who are shaping the future of our community.”

Initially skeptical, Lengai strongly believe in horticulture using organic farming practices. “When I first heard about these methods, I didn’t think they’d work for us,” she says. “But after seeing how much better my crops are now, I’m sure this is the right way to go.”

For centuries, the Maasai have relied on cattle for their food–milk, meat, and even blood. Switching to farming was a big change from their old ways.

“We used to believe that having many cattle was the only way to keep wealth and ensure security,” says Esuvat Joseph, who leads the Tupendane Maasai women’s group at Mikese village. “But now we understand that we need to cope with drought. We’ve learned to keep fewer cattle and focusing more on farming.”

Tupendane group has also embraced water conservation techniques, constructing ground reservoirs to collect rainwater. “This water is very important,” she explains. “We use it for irrigation when the rivers dry up.”

Climate-smart Solutions

The Maasai women’s adoption of climate-smart agriculture is not just a response to immediate needs but a strategy for long-term resilience. Through initiatives supported by the Norwegian Church Aid–an international charity–these women are learning to diversify their income sources, reducing their dependence on livestock and embracing sustainable horticulture practices.

“We’re teaching these women how to make the most of their small plots of land,” explains Oscar John, the program manager with Norwegian Church Aid. “By diversifying their income sources, they’re less dependent on livestock, which is increasingly vulnerable to drought.”

Conservation agriculture, a key component of this initiative, promotes sustainable farming techniques that improve soil health and increase crop yields without depleting natural resources.

For the women of Mvomero, this has been a divine plan. They are learning to grow drought-resistant crops, rotate their fields, and use organic fertilizers, all of which contribute to better crop yields.

As more women embrace climate-smart agriculture, the ripple effects are being felt in neighboring villages, as women once skeptical of these new methods, are now seeing the success in Mvomero and beginning to learn these practices in their own drought-stricken lands.

Empowerment in Action

The shift from livestock to crop farming has had a huge impact on the social dynamics within the Maasai community. Women, who were once sidelined in decision-making processes, are now taking the lead in managing their families’ resources. This newfound empowerment is improving their social and economic status while challenging the patriarchal norms that have long defined their society.

“We’ve always been made to believe that men are the decision-makers,” says Lengai. “But now we’re showing that women can lead too. We can take care of our families and make better decisions.”

This sense of empowerment is evident in the way the women of Mvomero approach their work. They are tending to their crops and building a future where their voices are heard and their contributions are valued. The construction of rainwater harvesting systems, for example, is a task that these women have taken on with pride. “We don’t wait for our husbands to do it; we build these reservoirs ourselves,” says Joseph. “It’s our way of showing that we can take care of ourselves.”

The men in the community are recognizing the shifting gender roles, and some of them are starting to appreciate the benefits of shared decision-making. While resistance remains, the success of these women is slowly changing attitudes. As the benefits of climate-smart agriculture become more apparent, more men are joining their wives in these efforts, working together to secure a better future for their families.

Challenges on the Horizon

The transition from livestock to crop farming is not without its difficulties, particularly for a community that has long measured wealth by the size of its herds. “There are still some who resist change,” admits Joseph. “They see farming as a lesser occupation compared to cattle herding. But as more of us succeed, the mindset is shifting.”

The path to fully accepting these new practices is slow, and the women of Mvomero know their success is just the start. They face many challenges ahead, including the risk of drought and strong cultural norms that shape gender roles in Maasai society.

But the women are strong. They know that their efforts are not just to overcome the on-going crisis but also about creating a better future for their children.

“We are planting the seeds of change,” says Naeku. “Our daughters will grow up knowing that they can be anything they want to be. They will see that women can lead, that we can innovate, and that we can solve any problems.”

A Model for the Future

The success of the Maasai women in Mvomero is beginning to attract attention from other drought-hit areas in Tanzania. Development organizations and government agencies are taking note of the community’s innovative approach and exploring ways to replicate it in other regions facing similar challenges.

“We see this as a model that can be adapted and implemented in other parts of the country,” says John. “The key is to empower communities, particularly women, to take control of their resources and livelihoods. When people are given the tools and knowledge they need, they can achieve incredible things.”

As Maasai women in pastoral communities make progress, they are not only securing their own future but also creating a stronger and fairer society. Their journey shows determination, innovation, and empowerment–a true example of women’s strength in overcoming challenges.

In Tanzania’s Maasai steppe, where the future of pastoral communities is uncertain, these women are showing that with the right support, even the most marginalized can overcome their problem and lead a better life.

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Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania: Two Entities Avails Computers to Rural Schools

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In: Tanzania Foreign Investment News

Arusha — Helios Tower Tanzania and Camara Education Tanzania have donated computers through their “Connect the Unconnected” community programme to facilitate modern teaching methods to students, especially in rural areas.

The donations were made at Endevesi Secondary School in Oljoro Ward, Arusha Rural District with the aim of promoting educational development through Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) in the country’s education sector.

Inaugurating the computer laboratory at the school, the Chairperson of Arusha Rural District Council, Mr Ojungu Salekwa said that the computer lab will help in facilitating teaching methods for students at school.

“The goal of this computer lab is to simplify learning methods and techniques, saving time for both students and teachers, it also brings them closer to the world of technology in the entire learning system,” said Mr Salekwa.

Helios Tower Tanzania Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gwakisa Stadi said that the aim of availing computer labs is to connect students from pastoralist communities.

“We connect these communities that mostly are in remote areas in Tanzania so that they can access various digital opportunities resulting from the advancements in global science and technology,” said Mr Stadi.

On his part, Director of Camara Education Tanzania, Dayani Mbowe asked other companies and institutions to continue investing in education, especially ICT to ensure the new generation is kept abreast with the scientific and technological changes that occur in the world.

ALSO READ: USA commends Tanzania for leveraging ICT to drive development

“We are here at Endevesi Secondary School with great joy today, ensuring that even schools in remote areas receive ICT services in education. We have provided 26 computers, a smart TV, and a projector,” said Mr Mbowe.

The Headteacher of the school, Godson Sukrueti, said that the project was beneficial to both teachers and students as it would solve the previous challenge of accessing books at the school.

Furthermore, one of the students, Mwanahamisi Rajab, expressed her gratitude to the donors for providing the equipment.

She said it will assist them in their studies.

Another student, Daud Lashine said that due to the shortage of books at the school, the equipment will help them access books online and improve their learning progress.

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania: Summit of the Future – Tanzania Hypes Clean Cooking

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NEW YORK: PRIME Minister Kassim Majaliwa represented President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan at the opening ceremony of the Summit of the Future as part of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) at the UN headquarters in New York, on Sunday.

This year’s UNGA is a crucial milestone in the global effort to accelerate progress towards the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with Tanzania expected to raise awareness about its clean cooking initiative among nations worldwide.

At last year’s UNGA78, Vice-President Dr Philip Mpango emphasised the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts to foster global solidarity and accelerate the implementation of the SDGs.

He called for urgent collective efforts to combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing mitigation and adaptation measures.

Dr Mpango highlighted the alarming findings of the latest Assessment Report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, indicating that the world is off-track to meet the 1.5-degree Celsius limit established in the Paris Agreement–a legally binding international treaty adopted at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP21) on December 12, 2015.

The 79th UNGA comes at a pivotal moment for Tanzania, which is implementing tangible initiatives for climate restoration, including the National Clean Cooking Energy Strategy.

This ten-year plan, launched by President Samia in May, is set to cost 4.6tri/- and aims to increase clean cooking energy usage from the current 10 per cent to 80 per cent by 2034.

Notably, during COP28 in Dubai, President Dr Samia launched the Africa Women Clean Cooking Support Programme (AWCCSP), advocating for clean cooking across the continent.

She emphasised that clean cooking energy is vital for climate change mitigation and inclusive sustainable development in Africa.

At UNGA79, Prime Minister Majaliwa is expected to highlight Tanzania’s efforts in reducing carbon emissions and protecting the environment through the adoption of clean cooking practices.

ALSO READ: Tanzania pushes for Microfinance support in clean cooking initiative

He attended the opening ceremony alongside Heads of Government from approximately 193 countries and was scheduled to convey greetings from the Tanzanian government.

The summit’s agenda includes discussions on trade, energy, economic development, the environment and issues concerning youth and children, as well as the impact of climate change.

Before the opening ceremony, Mr Majaliwa met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres to discuss cooperation between Tanzania and the UN. They addressed various topics related to defence, security and socio-political development.

In a media briefing after his discussion with Guterres, Mr Majaliwa stated that they focused on improving citizens’ living standards by enhancing the availability of social services.

He also mentioned that Guterres commended Tanzania’s historical role in supporting the liberation of several African nations, particularly those in the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

“Currently, our country continues to provide security support to several SADC and EAC nations,” Mr Majaliwa noted. He expressed gratitude for Guterres’s acknowledgment of Tanzania’s contributions to peace and security on the continent.

Furthermore, Mr Majaliwa informed the UN Secretary-General about the upcoming local elections in Tanzania, scheduled for November, as well as the general election next year. He assured Guterres of the government’s commitment to ensuring that all citizens can participate in the democratic process.

In promoting regional peace, Guterres praised Tanzania’s efforts in restoring stability in Burundi, particularly its role in receiving refugees during past conflicts. He expressed satisfaction with the ongoing political stability in Burundi and encouraged the repatriation of refugees to their home country.

On the eve of UNGA79, Former Energy and Minerals Minister Professor Sospeter Muhongo, now a Member of Parliament for Musoma Rural, expressed optimism that Tanzania would advance its interests in executing the Clean Cooking Energy Strategy.

“I believe all nations will recognise Tanzania’s tireless efforts to transition to clean cooking, as this transformative strategy is aligned with the global SDGs,” Professor Muhongo told the Daily News.

International Relations Analyst Mr Medard Wilfred, based at St Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT), emphasised that Tanzania’s clean cooking initiatives would attract global attention. He noted that the strategy is essential for protecting the ozone layer from the adverse effects of unclean cooking energy sources like firewood and charcoal.

Mr Wilfred added that the country’s clean cooking initiative aligns with the government’s economic diplomacy, which is crucial for fostering bilateral partnerships with other nations to invest in renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. The transition to clean cooking energy involves replacing unclean sources like firewood and charcoal with eco-friendly alternatives such as gas and electricity.

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania arrests opposition leaders to thwart protest

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By REUTERS

Tanzanian police arrested two opposition leaders again on Monday, their party and police said, to stop anti-government protests in the commercial capital Dar es Salaam.

The main opposition party Chadema’s chairman Freeman Mbowe was detained on the street, while his deputy Tundu Lissu was taken from his home amid plans to demonstrate against alleged killings and abductions of government critics.

Rights campaigners say President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government is targeting opponents ahead of local elections in December and a national vote in 2025.

Police said 14 people were arrested including Mbowe and Lissu for defying a prohibition on the protests.

There was no immediate comment from Hassan’s government, though it has previously said it defends democracy and does not tolerate brutality.

Chadema said on social media platform X that Mbowe was arrested in the Magomeni area of the city when he arrived to lead a peaceful protest. A convoy of 11 vehicles picked up Lissu and left without saying where he was going, it added.

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The pair were also briefly arrested, along with hundreds of supporters, last month.

Lissu survived being shot 16 times during an assassination attempt in 2016.

Earlier this month another senior Chema member was abducted from a bus, his body later found with signs he had been beaten and had acid poured on his face.

Read: Ally Kibao, abducted Tanzanian opposition leader found dead

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Tanzania: What to Learn From Tz’s Commitment to Environmental Protection, Climate Action

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Mwanza — TANZANIA’S readiness to collaborate with other nations on environmental protection signals hope for global efforts to combat climate change and its social and economic impacts.

Recently, Tanzania participated in an international conference in Kigali, Rwanda, focused on environmental justice, which gathered judges and magistrates from the Commonwealth. This underscores Tanzania’s dedication to addressing global environmental challenges.

The conference, themed “Environmental Rights,” was organised by the Commonwealth in partnership with the Rwandan judiciary.

Participants discussed legal frameworks and institutional approaches to enhance environmental justice and the role of courts in safeguarding these rights.

The event fostered the exchange of experiences and the establishment of lasting professional relationships.

Dr Philip Mpango, Vice President of Tanzania, opened the 24th forum and the 35th meeting of the Permanent Financial Committee of the United Nations Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

He emphasised the importance of equity in climate change discussions and highlighted Tanzania’s ongoing efforts to integrate gender considerations into climate policies.

The conference, attended by over 200 delegates from 80 countries, focused on “Accelerating Climate Action through Gender-Based Financing.” It examined how gender-sensitive funds can be utilised to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in addressing loss and damage caused by climate change.

Tanzania has actively encouraged the inclusion of gender issues in its policies, ensuring equal access to economic opportunities for both women and men. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, along with Tanzania Forest Services (TFS), participated in discussions about regional collaboration to combat climate change effects, particularly in the Congo Basin.

The Congo Basin Climate Commission (CBCC), which includes several member countries, aims to strengthen cooperative strategies for environmental protection. Dr Pindi Chana, Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, stated that this collaboration is vital for conserving biodiversity and natural resources.

The meeting also highlighted the role of the Congo Basin Blue Fund and the Development Bank of Central African States (BDEAC) in implementing international environmental agreements. Member countries are encouraged to submit projects to ensure effective environmental protection.

Dr Chana noted that as the global population grows, it’s increasingly important for countries to unite and share experiences in international climate discussions. The commission plans to enhance tourism and climate action through various partnerships, including collaborations with NGOs.

Prof Dos Santos Silayo, TFS Conservation Commissioner, emphasised Tanzania’s strategic role in the commission, advocating for cooperation to strengthen forest and wildlife resource sustainability.

Tanzania has also taken significant measures to address ozone layer depletion, preventing 216 tons of harmful chemicals from causing further damage, in line with the Montreal Protocol. Dr Ashatu Kijaji, Minister of State for the Vice President’s Office (Union and Environment), highlighted ongoing efforts to eliminate these chemicals by 2030.

The impacts of climate change in Tanzania include ozone layer deterioration, which leads to health issues like skin cancer and cataracts, as well as agricultural challenges. Recent El Niño rains have caused severe infrastructure damage, prompting government investment of over 830 billion shillings for repairs.

Tanzania faces challenges such as fatalities from heavy rains and drought-induced famine, underscoring the need for collective action. The national slogan, “Unity is Power,” calls on all Tanzanians and global citizens to engage in efforts to protect our planet from ongoing environmental damage.

Source: allafrica.com

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Tanzania: Paving Way – Tanzania’s Road Projects As Catalyst for Economic, Social Transformation

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THE construction and expansion of rural and urban road networks are emerging as crucial elements in Tanzania’s journey toward sustainable development.

These road works serve as vital arteries of progress, driving economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for millions.

For decades, rural communities in Tanzania have struggled with isolation due to inadequate road infrastructure.

Many areas were accessible only on foot or through rudimentary means of transport, which limited economic opportunities and access to essential services.

However, recent developments are changing this narrative. In collaboration with various stakeholders, the government has launched ambitious road construction projects aimed at linking remote villages to major towns and cities.

According to recent statistics from the Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA), the district road network has grown from 108,946 kilometres to 144,429 kilometres over the past three years–a 32.6 per cent increase.

This expansion surpasses the CCM Election Manifesto (2020-2025) target of 143,881 kilometres by 2025, as reported by TARURA to the media.

During a meeting organised by the Office of Treasury Registrar (OTR) in Dar es Salaam, TARURA’s Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Victor Seff, credited these achievements to increased government funding for road construction and maintenance.

The government has tripled TARURA’s budget from an average of 275bn/-over the past four years to 850 bn/-.

Engineer Seff also highlighted that, as of June 2023, weather-resistant road networks in the districts had reached 42,059 kilometres, exceeding the manifesto’s target of 35,000 kilometres.

“As of June, this year, the tarmac road network in the districts had reached 3,337 kilometres, surpassing the manifesto’s goal of expanding tarmac roads from 2,025 to 3,100 kilometres by 2025,” he noted.

Significant infrastructure projects have already been completed, including the construction of 58.5 kilometres of tarmac roads in Mtumba, the 140-metre Berega Bridge in Kilosa District, a 12.5-kilometre tarmac road in Kibaha, and a 5.1-kilometre tarmac road in Dodoma’s industrial area.

Several ongoing projects are being implemented through donor programmes, such as the Agriconnect project under the European Union and the Roads to Inclusion and Socio-Economic Opportunities (RISE) project funded by the World Bank.

The Agriconnect project, coordinated by the Ministry of Agriculture, aims to improve infrastructure in regions focused on tea, coffee, vegetables and fruit production.

In Phase I, the project cost 39.8bn/- and resulted in the construction of 87.6 kilometres across various districts, including Kilolo (18.3 km), Mufindi (30.3 km), Mbeya DC (26.8 km) and Rungwe DC (12.2 km).

Phase II, costing 37.2 billion TZS, added another 49.12 kilometres in Kilolo DC (1.1 km), Wangingombe (19.25 km), Mbozi DC (11.01 km), Busokelo DC (6.41 km) and Rungwe DC (11.35 km).

Increased road connectivity has empowered communities by providing essential infrastructure for local business development and improved living standards. District roads have spurred economic growth by enhancing market access, allowing farmers and local businesses to transport goods more efficiently, thereby reducing costs and expanding their market reach.

Additionally, road construction projects have generated numerous jobs, contributing to local economies and enhancing the quality of life in rural areas.

Regarding the RISE project under the World Bank, Engineer Seff reported an estimated cost of 822bn/-, with 705bn/- funded as a soft loan from the World Bank and 117.5 billion TZS from the government.

“The project will construct 535 kilometres of tarmac road, with 400 kilometres to be built by TARURA and 175 kilometres by the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS),” he explained.

Concerning the construction of the bridge and the development of the River Msimbazi basin project, Engineer Seff noted that the initiative aims to address flooding issues.

He stated that 98 per cent of those affected by the flooding have been compensated and relocated, and the procurement of a contractor for the bridge and supervising engineer is expected to be completed by November this year.

Another significant initiative, the Tanzania Cities Transforming Infrastructure and Competitiveness (Tactic) project, has been launched in 12 cities across the country.

The first phase involves road and drainage construction, with contracts signed in September 2023 and work commencing in November 2023. The project is expected to take 15 months to complete.

TARURA is also implementing the manifesto’s directive to explore appropriate technologies for the construction of urban and rural roads, aiming to use locally available materials to reduce costs.

According to Engineer Seff, utilising locally sourced construction materials, such as stones, can lower costs by over 50 per cent. “We are also testing various technologies to use local soil instead of transporting materials from far away, thus conserving the environment,” he added.

So far, using ECOROADS technology, one kilometre has been constructed in Dodoma City and 6.9 kilometres in Chamwino District, both completed. In Mufindi District, 10 kilometres have been built and 32 kilometres have been constructed in Rufiji District.

The manifesto also calls for the involvement of community groups in the maintenance of roads and bridges to create local employment, increase project ownership and reduce costs.

Engineer Seff reported that TARURA began engaging community groups as early as 2018 and as of June this year, had signed contracts with 217 groups, including 187 women, 24 youths and 6 elders.

The transformation of the rural and urban road network is redefining Tanzania’s sustainable development trajectory.

This ambitious initiative, led by the government and supported by various stakeholders, is not just about building roads; it is about igniting economic growth and improving the quality of life for all citizens.

Source: allafrica.com

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