DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA: The Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (TARURA) has stepped up implementation of road projects in Dar es Salaam, ordering contractors to complete earthworks by September 30, 2026, ahead of the rainy season and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The order was given by the TARURA Chief Executive Officer, Eng Victor Seff, during an inspection tour of road projects being implemented in areas expected to serve the continental football tournament.
Speaking during the inspection, the TARURA boss said contractors must increase manpower, machinery and other resources, including working around the clock in areas requiring urgent intervention, to ensure projects remain on schedule.
“All earthworks must be completed by September 30, 2026. We do not want the rains to become a reason for delaying these projects,” Eng Seff said.
During the tour, he inspected the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium and surrounding areas in Temeke Municipality, assessing access roads to the stadium, parking areas and connecting roads.
He also inspected Dahomey Road in Kinondoni Municipality, where excavation, filling, installation of road kerbs and preparation of the base layer are underway. Safety and warning signs have also been installed at the site.
Furthermore, the Eng inspected the relocation of utility infrastructure in Temeke, including electricity poles and cables, water pipelines and telecommunications infrastructure, to pave the way for road expansion and improvement of road reserves.
Planning for AFCON 2027? Explore Kenya’s host cities, stadiums
According to him, TARURA was working with TANESCO, DAWASA and telecommunications service providers to ensure the relocation of utilities was completed on time and did not disrupt the road construction schedule.
“AFCON 2027 is a historic opportunity for our country. We are not building infrastructure for a 30-day event; we are building permanent infrastructure that will benefit Tanzanians for many years to come. Quality is therefore not negotiable,” he said.
He also directed contractors, consulting engineers and other project specialists to maintain quality, professionalism and value for money, stressing that the need for speed must not compromise construction standards.
“You must prioritize storm-water drainage systems and other water management infrastructure be given priority to protect roads from damage and extend their lifespan,” he said.
The inspection covered four road construction contracts aimed at improving infrastructure in areas expected to support AFCON 2027 activities. Work sites under the contracts were officially handed over to contractors on August 2, 2026, and implementation is now underway.
Additionally, Eng Seff called on all institutions involved in relocating utilities to accelerate their work to prevent delays, while urging service providers to notify residents in advance whenever services have to be temporarily interrupted because of construction activities.