KATAVI, Tanzania — Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba has inspected the Sitalike Bridge across the Katuma River in Nsimbo District, Katavi Region, a strategic infrastructure project designed to improve transport and regional connectivity.
The bridge links Katavi Region with other parts of the Southern Highlands and facilitates access to neighboring countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burundi, and Rwanda.
Speaking after the inspection, Dr. Nchemba said the new bridge will significantly transform transportation in the area, replacing the previous structure which was weaker and often caused challenges for residents and transporters.
“This bridge marks a major improvement compared to the previous one, which was not strong enough and frequently caused difficulties for citizens and transport operators,” he said.
The Prime Minister added that the Sitalike Bridge is part of a broader government program to construct modern bridges across the country in order to save lives, improve mobility, and stimulate economic growth.
The project has been completed 100 percent at a cost of Tanzania Shillings 9.1 billion and was implemented by the government through the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS).
The bridge is expected to enhance trade, transport efficiency, and economic activities in Katavi and surrounding regions while strengthening Tanzania’s cross-border connectivity.