Tanzania has opened East Africa’s longest bridge, a landmark 3.2-kilometre structure spanning Lake Victoria in the country’s northwestern Mwanza region.
This iconic project, named after the late President John Magufuli, sets a new record for Africa, enhancing connectivity between the Misungwi and Sengerema districts in the Mwanza region.
Valued at $300 million, the bridge is a testament to Tanzania’s commitment to transforming its infrastructure landscape.
The Magufuli Bridge was constructed by Chinese firms, China Civil Engineering Construction Group and China Railway, with funding from the Tanzanian government.
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Despite delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the project was completed in October 2023. This bridge, an extra-dosed cable-stayed structure, is one of Africa’s top 10 longest bridges, setting a new standard for infrastructure development in the region.
The bridge’s strategic location across Lake Victoria serves as a critical link between Tanzania and neighboring countries, including Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda.
This improved connectivity is expected to facilitate smoother transport and trade routes, boosting regional commerce and strengthening economic ties with these countries.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan hailed the bridge as a symbol of Tanzania’s commitment to regional development and economic integration. The bridge’s completion is expected to reduce travel times, lower transportation costs, and spur economic activities in the region.
Enhanced connectivity between Dar es Salaam and southern Tanzania will facilitate seamless trade and commerce with neighboring countries. Local businesses will gain improved access to markets, while transportation costs will decrease and efficiency will increase. Ultimately, the bridge will propel economic growth and job creation.
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The Kigamboni Bridge is a critical component of Tanzania’s broader infrastructure development strategy, aligning seamlessly with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) goals. The integration of regional economies and enhanced competitiveness, will poise Tanzania to emerge as a hub for regional trade and commerce.
