The Minister of Construction, Abdallah Ulega, announced that the JP Magufuli Bridge (Kigongo-Busisi), connecting Mwanza and Geita regions, is expected to be completed by the end of February this year.
During his inspection of the bridge's construction on January 24, 2025, Ulega expressed gratitude to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for allocating over 611 billion Tanzanian shillings for the project so far.
He noted that when the President took office, the bridge's construction was only 25% complete, but now it stands at 96.3%, with 611 billion shillings invested, making it the longest bridge in East Africa, allowing for a quick five-minute crossing.
Ulega praised local experts for their learning experience on the project, emphasizing that the skills they acquired are a national asset that will enable them to handle similar projects in the future.
He urged them to work diligently, day and night, to ensure timely completion and to apply their newfound knowledge to other strategic projects, highlighting the importance of science and technology in their work.
Meanwhile, Acting Chief Executive of TANROADS, Eng. Doroth Mtenga, stated that "completion of the 3 km bridge and the 1.6 km connecting road will significantly enhance social and economic development in the Lake Victoria corridor, facilitating easier access to roads leading to Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi, thus boosting the economy of the region and the nation as a whole. "
The bridge, designed to support 160 tons, is expected to last over 100 years upon completion. Geita Regional Commissioner Martin Shigella and Mwanza CCM Chairman Michael Masanja also expressed their gratitude to President Samia for the bridge, which promises to bring social and economic liberation to the lakeside region.
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| Magufuli bridge in Mwanza region |