MWE Correspondent
Heavy rains sweeping across several parts of Tanzania have disrupted electricity supply and transport services, prompting safety concerns as authorities race to repair damaged infrastructure.
In a statement issued in Dodoma on December 28, 2025, the Ministry of Transport said the disruptions followed earlier warnings from the Tanzania Meteorological Authority, which had forecast heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds in a number of regions.
According to the ministry, the downpours have caused significant damage to sections of the old metre gauge railway, particularly bridges at Kidete in Kilosa District, Morogoro Region, and Gulwe in Mpwapwa District, Dodoma Region. The damage has affected rail operations and raised concerns about passenger and cargo safety along the affected routes.
The ministry further reported power faults impacting both the national electricity supplier, Tanzania Electric Supply Company, and the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) power system. These faults have resulted in interruptions to some rail services, with authorities temporarily suspending operations in areas considered unsafe until inspections and repairs are completed.
Road transport has also been hit by the heavy rains. The Morogoro–Iringa highway, one of the country’s busiest transport corridors, has experienced landslides and thick mud deposits, particularly along the stretch between Mama Marashi and Mikumi. Officials warned that these conditions pose serious risks to motorists, especially heavy trucks and long-distance buses.
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“The situation requires extra caution from all road users,” the ministry said, noting that visibility has been reduced in some areas while road surfaces have become slippery and unstable. Drivers have been advised to reduce speed, avoid night travel where possible and strictly follow guidance from traffic police and road safety officers deployed along affected routes.
The government has urged members of the public to take necessary precautions, avoid travelling through severely affected areas unless absolutely necessary, and stay informed through official updates. Citizens have also been asked to comply with instructions issued by security, transport and disaster management authorities as efforts continue to stabilise the situation.
Meanwhile, emergency repair works are already underway. Engineering teams have been dispatched to inspect damaged railway lines, bridges and power systems, while road maintenance crews are working to clear debris and restore safe passage along affected highways. The ministry said restoring safety remains the top priority before full transport operations can resume.
Travellers have been urged to remain patient as rehabilitation efforts continue, with authorities assuring the public that updates will be provided as conditions improve.
