Tanzania Celebrates Major Infrastructure Achievement
Tanzania officially completed the Magufuli Bridge, which now spans across Lake Victoria as Africa’s longest low-tower cable-stayed bridge. This infrastructure project marks a significant milestone for Tanzania and symbolises its ongoing partnership with China. The China Civil Engineering Construction Group (CCECG) and China Railway built the bridge, with funding from the Tanzanian government amounting to $300 million.
Magufuli Bridge Drastically Reduces Travel Time
The Magufuli Bridge, completed on October 6, 2023, drastically cuts travel time across Lake Victoria from two hours to just four minutes. This remarkable transformation will not only ease transportation for local residents but also strengthen Tanzania’s connection to neighbouring countries like Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda. The late President John Magufuli initiated this project in 2019, but delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic slowed its progress. However, it has now been successfully completed.
China’s Role in Tanzania’s Infrastructure Growth
The bridge is part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has been instrumental in Africa’s infrastructure development. DU Xiaohui, China’s Director-General of the Department of African Affairs, praised the joint efforts of China and Tanzania in completing the project, calling it a key component of BRI’s ongoing success on the continent. Tanzania continues to benefit from China’s involvement in major infrastructure projects, fostering economic growth and regional connectivity.
Bridge Named in Honour of Late President Magufuli
Originally called the Kigongo-Busisi Bridge, the project was renamed to honour the late President Magufuli, who had championed its construction before his death in 2021. His vision to improve transportation and infrastructure has left a lasting legacy, with the Magufuli Bridge serving as a prime example of his commitment to progress. The bridge is not only a functional asset but also a symbol of the country’s future growth and development.
Africa’s Progress Under the Belt and Road Initiative
Africa continues to see a surge in development projects under China’s BRI. In 2023 alone, African nations secured $21.7 billion in BRI-related deals, focusing on key sectors such as transportation, energy, and telecommunications. The Magufuli Bridge is one of many projects transforming Africa’s infrastructure landscape, alongside others like Nigeria’s Lagos-Ibadan railway and Ghana’s Tema Port Expansion. These projects are vital for improving trade routes and creating jobs across the continent.
Looking Forward to Enhanced Regional Connectivity
With the completion of the Magufuli Bridge, Tanzania is set to strengthen its trade routes and regional partnerships. The bridge will facilitate smoother transportation of goods and people across the East African region. It also stands as a testament to the power of international collaboration in driving infrastructure growth, promising a future of increased economic integration for Tanzania and its neighbouring countries.
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