| Work Detail |
The multi-billion Magufuli bridge is expected to be operational starting next month, with completion at 96.4%. Residents of the Lake Zone and neighboring countries will soon be able to cross the Kigongo-Busisi stretch in just 15 minutes. The bridge is expected to significantly reduce travel time from the prior two hours it took. This will allow residents of Misungwi, Sengerema, Kagera, Geita, and surrounding areas to dedicate more time to development activities. Moreover, the bridge will significantly enhance transportation, particularly for Mwanza. The construction of the sixth-largest bridge in Africa began on February 25, 2020. The Works Minister, Mr. Abdallah Ulega, stated that the construction progress was excellent and commended the venture contractors. These remarks were noted during a press conference after inspecting the project. “This bridge is 96.4% complete. Congratulations to all involved,” he said. The minister also commended the president, noting that the bridge was 25% done when she took office. Moreover, he said that the pillars were barely noticeable during that time, but now it is done. The Scope of Implementation on the Magufuli Bridge Mr Ulega noted that completing the Magufuli Bridge would cut the two-hour ferry wait to just five to ten minutes. “The completion is imminent, and we expect the bridge to be in use by the end of February or early March. This will greatly benefit Mwanza and Geita residents,” he added. The government has already allocated an additional sh16 billion to ensure the final construction works are done. The consulting engineer, Mr. Abdulkarim Majuto, noted the project was in the final stages of implementation. The focus is now on safety barriers for pedestrians and vehicles. Furthermore, the final work includes the installation of asphalt and access roads. “We appreciate the government’s support and are proud of the project’s progress,” Majuto noted. Once implemented, the bridge is expected to boost economic activities in regions such as Geita. Roads have been a major challenge in Geita, especially around the Kigongo-Busisi area. Residents are excited about the current completion rate and expect free movement. Once complete, the Magufuli Bridge will be the longest in East and Central Africa. Furthermore, it will feature two vehicle lanes, each seven meters wide and 2.5-meter-wide pedestrian pathways on each side. It also entailed an emergency parking with 28.45 meters width. At 3 kilometers in length, the bridge also entails 1.66 kilometers of connecting roads. The bridge honors the legacy of Tanzania’s former president, John Pombe Magufuli. The bridge’s structure will be supported by 804 foundation pillars, 65 bridge pier foundations, 64 main pillars, and 806 span supports. |
