Geita. The Tanzania Rural and Urban Roads Agency (Tarura) in Geita Region is maintaining more than 7,200 kilometres of roads, with at least 564 kilometres directly serving mining zones.
Regional Manager Engineer Edward Msechu said this when briefing reporters during the ongoing 8th Mining Technology Exhibition in Geita.
He explained that about 60 percent of the road network in the region is currently passable, noting that the agency is prioritising projects that facilitate economic growth and improve social services.
For the 2024/25 and 2025/26 financial years, Tarura has earmarked Sh580 million to complete 210 kilometres of roads, including access routes to mining sites.
Eng Msechu further revealed that Tarura in Geita has established a modern laboratory that tests the quality of construction materials used in road infrastructure.
The facility also supports other institutions, including Tanesco, the Irrigation Commission and Ruwasa, to ensure their projects meet required standards.
Meanwhile, Tarura’s Project Engineer from headquarters, Mr Faizer Mbange, said the agency is using the exhibition to sensitise the public on proper road use.
Issues raised include discouraging herding animals on roads, protecting road reserves, avoiding farming along road shoulders, and preventing heavy loads from damaging road networks.
He added that many visitors to Tarura’s pavilion had raised concerns about compensation, prompting the agency to offer clarifications.
“Some of our projects involve compensation because they are funded through both internal sources and donor support,” he explained.
Mr Mbange also said Tarura has been educating the public on forming community-based groups that handle minor road maintenance and participate in safeguarding road infrastructure.
