FREQUENT traffic congestion at Mzinga area of Mbagala in Dar es Salaam may become a thing of the past following the government’s decision to construct a new bridge.

Works Minister Innocent Bashungwa made the announcement yesterday during a tour to inspect various development projects in Coast Region, including road construction.

He noted that the government is currently selecting a contractor to build the bridge, which will help ease traffic jams affecting residents of Mbagala, Kongowe, Kisemvule, Mwanambaya and those travelling to the southern regions.

Bashungwa commended the government’s initiative, mentioning that once the bridge is completed, there are plans to expand the road from Mbagala Rangitatu to Mwanambaya to further reduce congestion.

During his visit to Mkuranga-Kisiju road, the minister directed the acting CEO of Tanroads to secure funds to complete a one-kilometre stretch leading to Kisiju, which has been stalled for over nine months.

He emphasized the importance of the road, stating that Mkuranga is one of the industrial districts and the ministry WAS committed to classifying it as a strategic route to facilitate access to investment areas.

He added that upon completion of the one-kilometre stretch—materials for which are already on-site—funding will be sought for the remaining 38 kilometres of the 45-kilometre road.

Baraka Mwambage, Tanroads Regional Manager for Coast Region, reported that six kilometres’ of Mkuranga-Kisiju road have been completed, with one kilometre awaiting funding for finalization.

He noted that if the contractor proceeds as planned, a total of seven kilometres will be paved, with the overall cost of the project reaching 7.17bn/- since its inception.

Mwambage also highlighted that once the entire road is paved, it will significantly improve transportation to Kisiju Port and stimulate economic activities in the area.

Mkuranga District Commissioner Hadija Nasri urged the government to allocate funds for the strategic road leading to the industrial cluster designated for investment.