Tanzania has signed a deal with Japan for nearly US$400mn to develop major roads in the country
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), on behalf of the Japanese government, will provide the money. Along with the African Development Bank (AfDB), JICA will improve a 230 km-long Arusha-Holili/Taveta-Voi stretch.
The Japanese body, however, will also provide financial assistance for a 100 km-long section, including the Kikafu Bridge. This will particularly involve the new alignment of the bridge.
Japanese ambassador to Tanzania Masharu Yoshida said, “I have already spoken with President John Magufuli and he showed a great concern in maintaining our cooperation in improvement and construction of road networks.”
Improving the existing road network could go a long way in mitigating accidents, felt Yoshida.
Back in 1986, a major accident took place on the bridge, which resulted in the death of six Japanese volunteers. JICA representative in Tanzania Toshio Nagase stated that the accident was a reminder of the lack of safety on the roads in Tanzania, and that his government would continue to support the endeavour of improving road quality in the East African nation.
