MWE Correspondent
Tanzania’s Ministry of Works has directed authorities to strengthen preparations against heavy rainfall and flooding along the Morogoro–Dumila–Dodoma highway, particularly at Mkundi Bridge in Kilosa District, Morogoro Region, to ensure uninterrupted transport during the rainy season.
Minister for Works Masanja Kadogosa issued the directive during an inspection tour to assess the road infrastructure’s preparedness for potential rainfall-related disruptions.
Mkundi Bridge is a strategic transport link for goods and passengers travelling from Tanzania’s port to various regions of the country and neighbouring nations, including Rwanda and Burundi. Any disruption at the bridge could affect trade, passenger movement and the transportation of essential goods.
Kadogosa stressed that preventive measures must be taken before heavy rains and floods cause damage or interrupt traffic. He instructed officials to identify vulnerable sections, address existing infrastructure challenges and prepare alternative routes for motorists.
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“Early precautions are essential. Do not wait until damage occurs. Prepare alternative routes that can be used if road conditions become difficult because of rain or flooding,” Kadogosa said.
He also called for the acceleration of preparations for constructing a new bridge at the site, noting that the highway plays a significant role in Tanzania’s economy and regional trade.
Kilosa District Commissioner Shaka Hamdu Shaka urged all technical teams and responsible authorities to fulfil their duties on time, emphasising that proper infrastructure preparedness and effective traffic management are essential for protecting lives and sustaining economic activities.
Meanwhile, Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS) Morogoro Regional Manager, Engineer Baraka Mwambage, said Mkundi Bridge was constructed in 1980 and has faced persistent challenges caused by the accumulation of sand in the bridge area.
The sand accumulation presents an infrastructure management challenge, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall, when increased water flows can threaten the safe movement of vehicles.
The government’s latest directive underscores the importance of proactive maintenance, emergency planning and long-term infrastructure investment in protecting strategic transport corridors.
Strengthening the bridge’s resilience and preparing alternative routes could help minimise disruptions during the rainy season while plans for a new bridge advance. For businesses and communities that depend on the Morogoro–Dumila–Dodoma highway, maintaining reliable access is essential for trade, mobility and economic stability.
