SOCIAL groups in Ludewa District, Njombe Region have expressed their gratitude to the Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) for providing employment opportunities that have significantly enhanced their economic well-being.

They shared their positive experiences during a recent visit by a delegate from Sierra Leone to community members in Lugarawa Ward in Ludewa district, highlighting the benefits they have received from road projects initiated by TARURA.

Manyanya Mkinga, chairman of the 'Tujipime' group, which comprises 22 members living with HIV, emphasized the transformative impact of TARURA's support.

He noted that since signing contracts with the agency, they have experienced considerable economic growth.

"By coming together, we realized we could rise above marginalization and stigma. The opportunities provided by TARURA have truly transformed our lives. Despite our HIV status, we have excelled in our work, demonstrating our strength and resilience. We are profoundly grateful to TARURA for empowering us to secure these jobs," he said.

Mkinga outlined various benefits gained since 2020, including the construction of housing, the purchase of farms for avocados and beekeeping, funding for children's education, and enrollment in the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

Currently, the group is working on the construction of a vented drift bridge, clearing a 5 km stretch of road, and building 5 meters of drainage and water retention along the Mundindi-Ngogoma road.

Mkinga mentioned that they began this project in September and expect to complete it by the end of October.

Gutfred Mbilinyi, chairman of the Twili Lupangala Road Works group, noted that they established their group after being encouraged by TARURA. They have benefited from this initiative by launching projects in farming, livestock keeping, and acquiring three motorcycles (bodaboda). Their future goal is to purchase a cargo transport vehicle.

Mohamed Kallon, Chief Executive Officer of the Sierra Leone Road Maintenance Fund, expressed excitement at visiting the groups. He stated that the income generated has allowed community members to build houses, purchase motorcycles, and fund their children's education.

Kallon commended the group of individuals living with HIV for their commendable efforts in securing their livelihoods.

Engineer Venant Komba, Director for Roads at TARURA, stated that the tour has been highly successful for both parties. He noted that Sierra Leone has been impressed by Tanzania's establishment of a professional institution overseeing district road activities, a specialized system for managing road data, stone technology, community involvement in planning, and the significant contributions of social groups to infrastructure construction and maintenance.