DODOMA: THE Tanzanian government has rolled out an ambitious urban renewal programme targeting rundown settlements in 35 towns and cities across Tanzania, in a move aimed at transforming living conditions, modernising urban centres and unlocking new investment opportunities.
Minister for Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development, Dr Leonard Akwilapo said the initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to create well-planned, modern, and sustainable cities capable of supporting the country’s fast-growing urban population.
Presenting the ministry’s 2026/27 budget estimates in Parliament in Dodoma, Dr Akwilapo said authorities have already identified 111 dilapidated areas covering 24,309.3 hectares in 35 councils across 25 regions for redevelopment.
The programme, he said, seeks to improve housing standards, upgrade infrastructure, and raise the economic value of urban areas while attracting strategic private investment.
“As part of implementation, the government has already started a pilot redevelopment project at Makangira-Msasani in Kinondoni District in collaboration with residents of the area,” Dr Akwilapo told lawmakers.
The minister noted that the government will continue carrying out physical planning and land surveying in the identified areas as preparations intensify for large-scale redevelopment projects designed to meet modern urban standards.
The initiative is expected to reshape some of Tanzania’s ageing neighbourhoods that have for years faced challenges, including poor housing, weak drainage systems, limited road networks, and unplanned settlement expansion
Urban development experts say the programme could significantly improve the quality of life for residents while creating more organised commercial and residential zones capable of supporting economic growth.
The redevelopment drive also reflects the government’s increasing focus on sustainable urbanisation as cities continue to absorb rising populations driven by economic expansion and rural-to-urban migration.
Analysts believe the successful implementation of the programme could increase land and property values, improve public services, and strengthen investor confidence in Tanzania’s urban real estate sector.
The Ministry of Lands is expected to work closely with local authorities, communities, and private investors to ensure the redevelopment projects are implemented efficiently and with minimal disruption to residents.