Josephine Christopher is a senior business journalist for The Citizen and Mwananchi newspapers
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President Hassan outlined her plan, which focuses on two major infrastructure projects: the comprehensive rehabilitation of the Tazara line and the expansion of the main roadway leading to the border
Tunduma/Tanga. CCM presidential candidate Samia Suluhu Hassan has unveiled a multi-faceted strategy to tackle the notorious traffic gridlock at the Tunduma border post, a crucial gateway for trade between Tanzania and Southern African nations.
Speaking at a campaign rally in the Songwe Region on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, President Suluhu Hassan outlined her plan, which focuses on two major infrastructure projects: the comprehensive rehabilitation of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (Tazara) line and the expansion of the main roadway leading to the border.
“To strengthen Tazara, we must rebuild it from the ground up. We have already signed an agreement with our partners in China to begin this work,” she stated during the rally. She emphasised that shifting a significant portion of heavy cargo from trucks to the railway would alleviate congestion and enhance Tanzania’s position as a regional logistics hub.
During her four years in office, she noted that her government had overseen significant improvements in the nation’s ports, increasing total cargo handling capacity from 15.8 million tonnes to 28 million tonnes. “At this very border post in Tunduma, cargo volumes have risen from 3.7 million tonnes to 9 million tonnes,” she highlighted.
According to David Silinde, CCM’s parliamentary candidate for Tunduma, the rail upgrade will be complemented by the completion of a 218-kilometre four-lane road from Igawa to Tunduma, aimed at reducing truck congestion and enhancing connectivity along the corridor.
Beyond these flagship projects, President Hassan mentioned that the government is finalising plans for 1,800 hectares of dry ports, or inland container depots, which will serve as off-road parking and processing facilities for cargo. Documents will be processed and customs clearance will be completed before trucks reach the border. Other measures include 24-hour operations, modern weighbridges, and new logistical infrastructure to ensure seamless movement of goods across the border.
Mwalimu promises monthly pension
Meanwhile, Chaumma presidential candidate Salum Mwalimu has pledged to introduce a universal monthly pension for all elderly citizens if elected in October. While addressing rallies in Korogwe Vijini and Mombo, Mwalimu stated that elderly people are a vital national resource whose contributions should be honored. “We will ensure that every elderly person receives a monthly pension, regardless of whether they worked in the public sector or not,” he said. “If I enter State House, I will not forget you. I understand the hardships you endure.” He added that such policies are common in other countries and urged Tanzanians to support him to drive transformative change.
“Tanzanians face challenges because we do not care. Pray for me that God protects me from pride and grants me the wisdom to lead justly,” he said. Mr Mwalimu, who has spent his entire career in the private sector, emphasised that this experience has provided him with insights into the country’s economic challenges. “I know how the economy operates. I have never stolen from anyone. Support me so I can govern and defend this country,” he declared.
Youth and women’s welfare
In Muheza, Mr Mwalimu also promised to support young entrepreneurs, assuring them that no viable business idea would fail under his government. He pledged that youth with start-up plans would receive capital to help them grow sustainable ventures. “I assure the youth of Kerege and across Tanzania: no young person’s business idea will fail. If you create a business, I will ensure it thrives when I enter office,” he stated.
Additionally, he vowed to address women’s challenges, including access to water and difficulties during childbirth. Chaumma’s parliamentary candidate for Mombo, Aurelian Yusuph, added that if elected, he would prioritise oversight of local development projects. “On October 29, vote for me and our presidential candidate Salum Juma Mwalimu,” he urged his supporters,” he told supporters.
