DEPUTY Permanent Secretary in the President’s Office (Regional Administration and Local Government) Rogatus Mativila has directed all local government authorities across the country to ensure strict supervision of road maintenance efforts.

He emphasized that maintaining roads is essential to protecting the government’s significant investment in transport infrastructure. Speaking during an inspection tour of the 19-km Wenda–Mgama road in Iringa Region recently, Mativila underlined the importance of protecting the infrastructure.

The project is currently at 99 percent and implemented by the Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) under the Roads to Inclusion and Socio-Economic Opportunities (RISE) project at a cost of 29.7bn/-.

 “It is the responsibility of every council to ensure these roads remain clean and well-maintained. The government has invested billions, expecting the roads to serve the people for many years,” he said.

 He noted that proper upkeep of road infrastructure contributes significantly to community development. “Clean and safe roads are not just about aesthetics; they are vital for economic and social progress.

The roads help farmers, traders and ordinary citizens move their goods and access services more efficiently.” He also stressed the direct link between infrastructure and local government revenue. “When transport is smooth, businesses thrive, meaning more revenue for councils through taxes and service fees,” he added.

 Mativila issued a warning to underperforming contractors, saying the government would not hesitate to take legal action against those who delay projects or compromise quality. “The government wants to see value for money in every project. Any form of negligence or substandard work is unacceptable and will be dealt with firmly,” he said.

 The Wenda–Mgama road project is part of a broader national initiative to improve rural infrastructure and stimulate economic growth.By connecting rural areas to markets and essential services, the government aims to enhance the quality of life for millions of Tanzanians.

 “This is not just about roads; it’s about access, opportunity and national development,” he said.TARURA has significantly expanded its impact. The district road network spans 144,429.77 km, with 55 percent already improved, targeting 60 percent completion by next month.

 Between 2021/22 and 2024/25, TARURA’s budget surged from 275bn/- to 870.3bn/-, a 216 percent increase, leading to:Paved roads expanding from 2,025.69 km to 3,337.66 km, gravel roads increasing from 27,809.26 km to 42,059.17 km, earth roads reducing from 112,317.20 km to 99,032.93 km as well as the construction of 3,195 bridges and 75,620 culverts.

 The developments have improved accessibility, safety and transport efficiency, accelerating economic activity across Tanzania.