THE government has signed a contract for the construction of the Iringa-Msembe road, which leads to Ruaha National Park (104 km), upgrading it to tarmac worth 143bn/- aimed to open up tourism, economic, and business opportunities in the Southern Highlands region.

The contracts were signed yesterday, at Samora Stadium in Iringa, between the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) and the contractor, along with the supervising engineer.

The event was attended by Minister of Works Innocent Bashungwa, Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office for Policy, Parliament, and Coordination William Lukuvi, Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism Dr Pindi Chana, Deputy Minister of Transport David Kihenzile, and local leaders including Regional Commissioner Peter Serukamba.

Minister Bashungwa urged Tanroads to ensure that the contractor, CHICO, delivers a high-quality road within the agreed timeline.

"President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan understands that this road will unlock economic and tourism opportunities for the people of Iringa. She has allocated special funds totalling 142.56bn/- to ensure the project is completed," Bashungwa stated.

He also outlined the government’s plans for Iringa, including the procurement process for the construction of a 7.3 km bypass and the ongoing expansion of Kitonga Mountain, where work is 65% complete at five hazardous corners.

Bashungwa further emphasized the government's commitment to improving transport infrastructure in the Southern Highlands region, facilitating trade, and boosting the economy.

William Lukuvi highlighted that the completion of the Iringa-Msembe road will significantly benefit the local economy, especially since Nduli Airport has been completed, enhancing tourism opportunities.

Dr Pindi Chana noted that the new road will facilitate easier access to Ruaha National Park, thereby promoting tourism in the Southern Highlands.

Iringa Regional Commissioner Peter Serukamba urged the government to promptly address compensation for residents affected by the construction to prevent delays.

Eng. Mohamed Besta, TANROADS CEO, announced that the construction bids were awarded to China Henan International Corporation (CHICO) and Conseil Ingénierie Et Recherche Appliquée (CIRA SAS) from Mali, in partnership with Tanzania's NIMETA Consult. The project is expected to be completed within 24 months.

The Iringa-Msembe road project is part of the government’s strategy to accelerate economic and social development in Iringa, particularly in Iringa Urban and Iringa Rural districts, by enhancing the road network to improve transport and tourism efficiency.