Tanzanian government warns BRT contractors over unnecessary delays

Dar es Salaam. The Tanzanian minister for Works, Abdallah Ulega, has warned contractors involved in the Rapid Transit Bus (BRT) projects that the government will not tolerate delays or substandard work.

Mr Ulega who inspected the BRT projects from the city centre to Gongo la Mboto and Kimara yesterday, pledged strict oversight while rewarding contractors who deliver high-quality results.

The visit was his first since his appointment as minister for Works by President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Before the appointment he served as minister for Livestock and Fisheries.

“Contractors who perform well will be prioritised. Those with poor track record will not be given future opportunities. I will personally conduct frequent inspections to ensure accountability,” he said.

The minister acknowledged the difficulties Dar es Salaam residents face due to traffic congestion and urged contractors to promptly open completed sections of the BRT routes in order to alleviate the public's burden.

“We understand the inconvenience caused by construction delays. However, we assure you that these challenges will soon give way to a brighter future once the work is complete,” he said, adding that completed projects would significantly improve the city’s daily life and economy.

Mr Ulega thanked residents for their patience and resilience and expressed gratitude to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for prioritising Dar es Salaam’s infrastructure development.

He also highlighted the government’s commitment to clearing outstanding debts owed to contractors, particularly local firms, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance.

“My team and I are working to ensure contractors are paid fairly and promptly. We are auditing all claims to ensure they are accurate,” he said.

Mr Ulega further directed that all roads under the Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (Tarura) be equipped with streetlights to enhance safety and beautify the city.

The BRT project manager from the Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanroads), Mr Frank Mbilinyi, reported that the third phase of the BRT project, running from the city centre to Gongo la Mboto, is 72 percent complete and is expected to be finalised by March 2025.

The phase, which costs Sh230 billion, is part of six main projects under the BRT system.

“The first phase, covering Kimara, Kivukoni, Gerezani, and Morocco, is complete and operational. The fourth phase, from the city centre to Mwenge, Tegeta, and Ubungo (Kijazi Bridge), is under construction and set for completion by April 2025,” said Mr Mbilinyi.

He noted that delays in planning and preparation by contractors had hindered progress but said measures had been taken to ensure they now work around the clock to meet deadlines.

Mr Ulega directed contractors to begin nighttime construction within three days.

“I will personally return on Thursday to inspect progress. If work is not being conducted at night, strict action will be taken, and those under me will be held accountable,” he said, urging Tanroads and the ministry of Works to oversee the directive.

Other planned phases include the fifth phase, covering Ubungo to the Dar es Salaam Port and Segerea to Tabata Relini, which is currently in the procurement stage, and the sixth phase, which includes Mwai Kibaki Road to Kawe, Kimara to Kibaha, and Mbagala to Kongowe.

Mr Ulega called on Dar es Salaam residents to remain patient, emphasising that the temporary challenges posed by construction would soon give way to long-term prosperity.

Ukonga MP and minister for Communication and Information Technology, Mr Jerry Silaa, commended President Samia for her achievements, including the BRT project.

He noted that once completed, travel time from Gongo la Mboto to the city centre would reduce from the current two to three hours to just 30 minutes.

Mr Silaa also praised Mr Ulega’s commitment.

“Even on a Sunday, you have chosen to work tirelessly to inspect and provide directives. This reflects your dedication to the nation,” he said.