Joseph Isangura
Tanzania is preparing for a major milestone in its infrastructure journey with the official launch of the John Pombe Magufuli Bridge, a 3.2-kilometre structure that now connects Kigongo in Mwanza Region to Busisi in Geita Region, across the iconic Lake Victoria.
The bridge will be officially inaugurated by President Samia Suluhu Hassan on June 19, 2025, as part of her Lake Zone development tour.
Formerly known as the Kigongo–Busisi Bridge, the structure was renamed in honour of the late President John Pombe Magufuli—a leader widely remembered for championing massive infrastructure projects during his tenure.
When construction began in December 2019, the project was seen as a bold step in transforming travel and trade in northern Tanzania. But after Magufuli’s sudden death in 2021, concerns emerged over whether such grand infrastructure efforts would continue. However, President Samia reaffirmed her commitment to the vision, ensuring the bridge—only 25% complete at the time—was finished under her leadership.
The structure is now being hailed as East Africa’s longest bridge and the sixth longest in Africa. It replaces an outdated ferry service that previously required up to three hours of waiting. Now, travelers can cross in under five minutes by car—an improvement expected to revolutionize transport and logistics in the region.
Beyond convenience, the bridge offers massive economic potential. According to engineers and economists, the project is expected to reduce transport costs by up to 30%, directly benefiting sectors such as cotton, gold, fish trade, and general logistics. Daily vehicle crossings are projected to rise from about 1,600 to over 10,000, driving commerce between Mwanza, Geita, and beyond.
The bridge was constructed by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and China Railway 15th Bureau, with full funding from the Tanzanian government at a cost of around TZS 716 billion (approximately US$260 million). Over 700 local workers were employed directly during construction, while analysts estimate more than 5,000 indirect jobs will follow through businesses such as roadside vendors, fuel stations, and regional transport services.
Also Read; Ahmedabad Air Disaster Claims 265 Lives, Modi Mourns
The bridge also carries emotional weight. In a heartfelt speech in December 2020, Magufuli recounted how a delay at the same ferry crossing almost caused him to miss an important family event before becoming president. It was one of the reasons he prioritized building a permanent bridge, to ensure no other Tanzanian would suffer similar delays—or worse. He also cited a tragic canoe accident that killed 11 people at the site, adding further urgency to the project.
Looking forward, the bridge is expected to strengthen Tanzania’s connectivity with landlocked neighbours like Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), improving regional integration under initiatives like EAC and AfCFTA.
Tourism is also expected to benefit. Attractions such as Saanane Island National Park and Rubondo Island National Park in the Lake Zone will now be more accessible, potentially drawing more domestic and international visitors.
President Samia will continue her tour in Mwanza on June 21 to attend the Bulabo Cultural Festival, highlighting not only infrastructure but also the cultural richness of the region.
