Tanzania: Government Proposes Measures to Enhance Internally Funded Road Projects The Tanzanian government has unveiled plans to introduce measures aimed at improving the quality and efficiency of its internally funded road projects. This initiative is part of the country’s broader efforts to enhance infrastructure development and boost economic growth. According to the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS), the proposed measures include: * Enhanced project planning and design: Conducting detailed feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments to ensure that road projects are aligned with national priorities and minimize adverse impacts. * Strict cost control and procurement reforms: Implementing stringent procurement procedures, transparent bidding processes, and regular audits to prevent overspending and corruption. * Improved contractor selection and management: Establishing clear criteria for selecting qualified contractors and implementing robust contract management mechanisms to ensure timely project completion. * Capacity building for engineers and technicians: Investing in training programs to enhance the technical skills and knowledge of professionals involved in road construction and maintenance. * Use of innovative technologies: Exploring the adoption of new technologies, such as geospatial tools and drone surveys, to improve efficiency and productivity. * Community engagement: Involving local communities in project planning and implementation to ensure that their needs are met and potential conflicts are addressed. The government believes that these measures will lead to: * Improved road quality and safety * Reduced project costs and delays * Enhanced transparency and accountability * Increased local participation and ownership * Strengthened economic growth and development TANROADS has also emphasized the need for increased funding to support these measures and ensure the timely implementation of internally funded road projects. The agency is working closely with the Ministry of Finance and other stakeholders to secure adequate financial resources. The proposed measures are being welcomed by industry experts and civil society organizations. They believe that if implemented effectively, they will significantly improve the quality and efficiency of road construction and maintenance in Tanzania. This will not only enhance the country’s infrastructure but also contribute to reducing poverty, improving access to markets, and fostering economic development.To enhance domestic funding for road construction, repair, and maintenance, the government proposed modifying the Road and Fuel Toll Act. A fee of 382/- per kilogram of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) used in vehicles will be implemented. This measure aims to generate additional government revenue for road maintenance and repair, and it will also contribute to equity with vehicles using gasoline, which contribute to these efforts through fuel taxes. The proceeds from this fee will be allocated to the Road Fund.To enhance domestic funding for road construction, repair, and maintenance, the government proposed modifying the Road and Fuel Toll Act. A fee of 382/- per kilogram of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) used in vehicles will be implemented. This measure aims to generate additional government revenue for road maintenance and repair, and it will also contribute to equity with vehicles using gasoline, which contribute to these efforts through fuel taxes. The proceeds from this fee will be allocated to the Road Fund. To further supplement road infrastructure development, funds will be set aside from the decline in oil prices. These funds will also be deposited into the Road Fund. A Special Committee established by the Ministers of Energy and Finance will oversee this arrangement and determine the amount to be reserved based on the prevailing market price. The government emphasizes its commitment to improving the country’s transportation infrastructure, including the construction and rehabilitation of highways, regional roads, bridges, and both urban and rural roads through Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) and Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA). The construction of the 3km Kigongo-Busisi Bridge and its access road is nearing completion. Recognizing the significance of rural roads, the government has increased the budget for TARURA, allowing them to continue implementing their action plan for road construction, maintenance, and rehabilitation. The government, in partnership with international development organizations, is engaged in the construction of numerous roads and over 14 airports. These projects, valued at US$2.81 billion, include funding from the African Development Bank, the World Bank, the European Investment Bank, JICA, the Kuwait Fund, and the OPEC Fund for International Development. Some notable road projects being undertaken with funding from these partners include the Dar es Salaam Bus Rapid Transit Project (Phases II, III, and IV), Dodoma City Outer Ring Road Project, Mnivata-Masasi-Newala Highway, Tanzania/Burundi: Rumonge-Gitaza/Kabingo-Kasulu-Manyovu Highway, Multinational: BagamoyoHorohoro/Lunga Lunga-Malindi Road, and Malagarasi-Ilunde-Uvinza Highway. The Msalato International Airport, as well as Tanga, Lake Manyara, and Iringa airports, are also under construction. These projects are expected to be completed in phases, with some expected to be finished in 2024/25.Government Proposes Measures to Improve Internally Funded Road Projects In a bid to enhance the quality and efficiency of internally funded road projects in Tanzania, the government has proposed a raft of measures aimed at addressing key challenges facing the sector. One of the proposed measures is the establishment of a dedicated Road Fund that will serve as a sustainable financing mechanism for road construction and maintenance. The fund will be capitalized through various sources, including fuel levy, road user charges, and grants. Another key measure is the establishment of a Road Maintenance Agency (RMA) to oversee the planning, execution, and monitoring of road maintenance activities. The RMA will be responsible for ensuring that roads are maintained to a high standard throughout their lifespan. To improve project implementation, the government plans to introduce performance-based contracts for road construction and maintenance. This will incentivize contractors to deliver quality work within specified timelines. The government also recognizes the importance of capacity building within the road sector. It has proposed the establishment of a Road Training Institute to provide training and certification for road engineers, technicians, and other professionals involved in project execution. Furthermore, the government is exploring the use of innovative technologies to improve road design, construction, and maintenance. This includes the adoption of modern materials, such as asphalt concrete and geotextiles, to enhance road durability and longevity. By implementing these measures, the government aims to improve the quality and sustainability of internally funded road projects, leading to better connectivity, improved trade, and enhanced economic growth in Tanzania.