Tanzania vows to meet SGR deadline despite challenges

Dar es Salaam. The government has assured the public that President Samia Suluhu Hassan's directive to launch the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) by July 2024 will be met.

Chief Government Spokesperson Mobhare Matinyi made the statement during a press conference on January 5, 2024.

The conference aimed to update the public on various national issues, including the long-awaited SGR project.

"There will be no other directive. No changes should be expected after the recent directive of the Head of State," Matinyi declared, emphasising the government's commitment to the President's deadline.

He acknowledged the frustrations surrounding missed launch dates and explained the factors contributing to the delay.

"Compliance with security systems and the quality of services have been consuming time," he admitted, citing rigorous testing procedures for both locomotives and coaches.

Matinyi confirmed the arrival of four engines and 56 coaches, with the remaining 13 locomotives expected later this year.

He elaborated on the extensive trials required for each engine (10,000 kilometers) and coach (5,000 kilometers) before operation.

"Ongoing trials are the ones that will determine the corporation's readiness for commencement of services," he emphasised, highlighting the importance of thorough testing for safety and reliability.

He further highlighted the ambitious scope of the project, stating that upon completion, Tanzania will boast the longest railway network on the African continent.

He also emphasized the state-of-the-art security measures being implemented, including eliminating road crossings and ensuring high-speed travel with minimal stops.

"The country SGR system was expected to use the highest security system which is being used by developed countries in the world including European countries," Matinyi confirmed.

President Hassan's stern directive and the government's detailed explanation offer renewed hope for the long-awaited SGR launch.

While challenges remain, the government's commitment and transparency provide a more optimistic outlook for the project's timely completion.