MINISTER for Works Abdallah Ulega has instructed the Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanroads) to work around the clock to complete urgent projects under its management.

Minister Ulega issued the directives yesterday during a meeting with Tanroads Management and regional managers from across the country, in Dodoma, where he emphasised that urgent projects should be treated as a top priority.

“Work at full speed, both day and night, especially on emergency projects, to help Tanzanians overcome the challenges caused by damaged infrastructure,” Ulega said.

Ulega told the managers they are expected to work at a pace similar to that of the Tanzania People's Defence Force (TPDF) when given government assignments, as the rainy season is approaching, which could cause further damage to already deteriorating areas.

He highlighted that roads damaged by heavy rainfall from both the long rains and the El Niño phenomenon have caused major disruptions, halting economic activities, making it crucial to address these issues urgently.

The meeting was the first time that Ulega met with Tanroads leadership since his appointment by President Samia Suluhu Hassan earlier this month.

During the meeting, the new minister took the opportunity to commend the agency's staff for their hard work and professionalism.

He noted that, under the government has completed over 1,198 kilometres of paved roads for the past three years.

Ulega, who is also the Member of Parliament for Mkuranga, urged the managers to work with confidence and professionalism to drive effectiveness and efficiency in the construction sector, thereby addressing the challenge of poor infrastructure and boosting the country's economic growth.

Minister Ulega urged the regional managers across the country to ensure that all areas with traffic congestion, particularly in cities and municipalities, are properly planned and designed to meet current and future needs.

He called for good coordination to reduce traffic jams and enable citizens to complete their tasks on time.

The Minister reassured the Managers that the Sixth Government, led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, will continue to address the challenges faced by contractors to ensure they work swiftly and meet government objectives.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, Aisha Amour, explained that Tanroads will continue ensuring that main roads, regional roads, and bridges remain passable throughout the year.

Ambassador Amour also urged the Tanroads managers to enhance project management, protect road reserves, and improve urban areas with street lighting and environmental conservation along roadways.