MWANZA: Construction of Tanzania’s Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Lot Five linking Mwanza to Isaka has reached 68 per cent completion, the government said on Thursday, as the East African nation pushes ahead with a multi-billion-dollar rail modernisation programme.
Transport Minister Makame Mbarawa said he was satisfied with progress on the 341-kilometre stretch during an inspection visit to Misungwi District in Mwanza Region.
“I am pleased with the pace of construction of this project. Reaching 68 per cent is not a small achievement; it is a very significant milestone. Congratulations to the contractor and all workers for the great job you are doing,” Mbarawa said.
He added that bridges and culverts along the route were 91 per cent complete, signalling substantial headway on key engineering works.
The Mwanza–Isaka section, estimated to cost about 3.06 trillion Tanzanian shillings, forms part of Tanzania’s broader SGR network designed to link the Indian Ocean port of Dar es Salaam with inland regions and neighbouring countries, strengthening regional trade corridors.
According to the minister, three buildings will be constructed at Mwanza Station, including a main terminal with capacity to accommodate 900 passengers and two additional buildings designated for commercial use.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS:
- Rail project at 68% completion, with bridges and culverts 91% done.
- SGR Lot Five links Mwanza–Isaka as part of regional logistics expansion in Tanzania.
- Transport Minister Makame Mbarawa praised progress and warned against material theft.
- Stations will include passenger and commercial buildings plus an abattoir to boost local business.
- Project cost estimated at 3.06trn/-, with completion targeted for 2028 by Tanzania Railways Corporation.
- Infrastructure modernisation aims to cut transport costs and strengthen regional trade links.
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At Fela Station, authorities plan to build a modern abattoir to stimulate local economic activity and expand business opportunities for surrounding communities.
Mbarawa also warned project workers against theft or misuse of construction materials, saying any employee found stealing cement, fuel or other assets would face strict legal action.
The Director General of the Tanzania Railways Corporation, Engineer Masanja Machibya, said the project was on track for completion by 2028.
“I assure you that by 2028 this project will be completed and ready for public use. All transportation activities from Dar es Salaam to Mwanza will commence,” Machibya said.
Local authorities say the railway’s passage through Misungwi District is expected to create employment opportunities, particularly for young people, with the construction of Fela Station and the planned abattoir seen as potential economic catalysts.
Tanzania’s SGR project is central to the government’s strategy to modernise infrastructure, lower transport costs and position the country as a regional logistics hub in East and Central Africa.
