Dodoma. The Rural and Urban Roads Agency (Tarura) has completed the construction of 439 stone bridges across the country, saving the government an estimated Sh75 billion, thanks to the adoption of cost-effective and climate-resilient construction technologies.
The revelation was made by Tarura’s Technical Advisor, Mr Pharles Ngeleja, during a press briefing at the ongoing Nane Nane Agricultural Exhibitions taking place at Nzuguni Grounds in Dodoma.
Highlighting the agency’s strides since its inception, Mr Ngeleja said the use of stone bridge technology has allowed Tarura to deliver critical infrastructure at a fraction of the cost, while also ensuring durability and adaptability to rural environments.
“We have constructed 439 stone bridges at a total cost of Sh15 billion. Had we opted for conventional concrete bridges, the cost would have exceeded Sh90 billion,” he noted. “This approach has significantly reduced government expenditure while delivering infrastructure that aligns with local needs and climatic conditions.”
Mr Ngeleja underscored the importance of rural road infrastructure as a driver of agricultural development, emphasising that good roads enable farmers to transport their produce to markets swiftly and safely, thereby increasing income and stimulating rural economies.
“Tarura is the lifeline of the agricultural sector. Farmers may grow in abundance, but without reliable road networks, their produce cannot reach markets. Good roads are not just infrastructure—they are catalysts for agricultural transformation and rural prosperity,” he said.
At the Nane Nane exhibitions, Tarura is showcasing its achievements in expanding rural connectivity and providing public education on the importance of sustainable infrastructure solutions.
The agency’s display has drawn keen interest from farmers, students, and local leaders eager to learn more about the impact of road development on rural livelihoods.
Through its ongoing commitment to low-cost, high-impact infrastructure, Tarura continues to play a pivotal role in linking remote communities to economic opportunities, improving service delivery, and laying the foundation for inclusive national development.
