The highly anticipated multi-billion Iringa-Msembe Road project has officially begun, following the World Bank’s credit approval to the Tanzanian government. Under the Tanzania Transport Integration Project (TanTIP), approximately Tsh. 142.56 billion will be allocated for the rehabilitation and upgrading of the 104-kilometer stretch of the regional R621. This road connects Ruaha National Park at Msembe to Iringa Town via Somora Roundabout. Of the total length, 9.2 kilometers fall within Iringa Municipality, with the remaining 94.8 kilometers extending through the Iringa District.
Key towns along this route include Kalenga, Nzihi, Kidamali, and Nyamahana, with the road continuing through Idodi, Mapogoro, Tungamalenga, and ending at Msembe airstrip. This project aims to significantly improve transportation between Iringa and Ruaha National Park, which will boost tourism in the Southern Highlands and spur economic growth in the region.
The Tanzanian government, under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu, views this project as an important step toward improving the country’s infrastructure, especially in support of key sectors such as tourism and agriculture. According to Minister for Works, Innocent Bashungwa, the road will play a crucial role in unlocking Ruaha National Park’s tourism potential, which will lead to job creation and economic benefits for the local communities.
Alongside the Iringa-Msembe Road, other significant infrastructure projects in Tanzania include the recently inaugurated Kidatu-Ifakara Road and the Great Ruaha Bridge, both of which aim to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic activities in regions like Morogoro, Njombe, and Ruvuma.
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