Tanzania’s Works minister slams Chinese contractor over bus rapid project delays
The BRT Phase IV project is a critical component of the city’s transport infrastructure, aimed at easing congestion and improving mobility. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- Mr Ulega linked the setbacks to worsening traffic congestion in Dar es Salaam.
Dar es Salaam. Minister of Works Abdallah Ulega has expressed strong dissatisfaction over delays in the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Phase IV project, blaming Chinese contractor China Geo-Engineering Corporation for failing to meet deadlines despite receiving a Sh36 billion payment.
Mr Ulega voiced his frustration on Wednesday, 5 February, during an inspection of the ongoing BRT IV infrastructure project, which covers 15.6 kilometres from Mwenge to Tegeta and 13.6 kilometres from Mwenge to Ubungo.
He criticised the slow pace of work, particularly the lag in concrete filling despite excavation being in progress.
"You've dug up the entire road, but you're not working on it. Why do you only have one concrete production machine when there’s just a month left on your contract?" he questioned sharply.
"Why is there no concrete yet? Are you aware the coming rainy season will wash everything away?" he added.
Mr Ulega reminded the contractor that payment had already been made, questioning their commitment to completing the work.
"You have our money, but you're not working properly. Why are you relaxing? You're behind schedule and still not working efficiently," he said.
He further accused the contractor of jeopardising the long-standing diplomatic relationship between Tanzania and China.
"Why are you playing with us? Let me remind you, Tanzania and China have a long history of friendship—do you want to ruin that?" he warned.
The minister did not mince words regarding the potential consequences of the delays.
"As long as I am the Works Minister in Tanzania, I will not recommend you for any other projects here," he declared.
Mr Ulega also linked the setbacks to worsening traffic congestion in Dar es Salaam.
"Do you realise that Dar es Salaam now has the worst traffic jams, and your delays are making the situation worse?" he said.
Turning to the project consultant, Mr Ulega accused them of failing to hold the contractor accountable.
"They have failed, but you’re just watching. I will not give you any more consulting jobs because you have not done your duty. I don’t even have a single report on my desk from Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanroads) saying you advised them after underperformance," he added.
The BRT Phase IV project is a critical component of the city’s transport infrastructure, aimed at easing congestion and improving mobility.
However, with the contractor behind schedule, concerns are growing over whether the project will be completed on time.
