BUKOBA: KAGERA residents have welcomed the completion of five permanent bridges that were destroyed by the 2024 El Niño rains, saying the projects will improve transport and stimulate economic activities across the region.
The bridges, now fully completed, are Kanoni Bridge in Bukoba Municipality (5.5bn/-), Kyanyabasa Bridge in Bukoba District Council (9.8bn/-), Kamishango Bridge in Muleba District (12.6bn/-), Kyetema Bridge (8.5bn/-) and Karebe Bridge (9.3bn/-).
Kagera TANROADS Regional Manager, Eng Joel Samuel Mwambungu, said the new bridges will significantly improve transportation and facilitate the movement of agricultural produce and other goods.
The bridges will also strengthen social and economic activities and enhance connectivity between affected communities and neighbouring regions.
“The permanent bridges stand as a beacon of hope and prosperity for the people of Kagera and will accelerate sustainable development. Their successful completion demonstrates the country’s commitment to driving its own development agenda. The bridges will enhance safety, reduce transport costs and stimulate economic activities,” he explained.
Eng Mwambungu urged residents to protect road and bridge infrastructure to support continued economic growth and development.
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He said the government allocated more than 45bn/- for the construction of the five permanent bridges after seasonal rains damaged various structures, disrupting transport and economic activities.
According to him, road and bridge infrastructure plays a vital role in attracting investment, creating employment opportunities and improving access to essential services.
Eng Mwambungu further revealed that TANROADS has expanded Kagera Region’s road network from 1,966km in the 2024/25 financial year to 2,076km this year.
He said the government continues to invest in transport infrastructure to address persistent road disruptions during the rainy season, which for many years left several areas inaccessible and affected the livelihoods of people.