In October 2024, the Vice President of Tanzania, Dr. Philip Mpango laid the foundation stones for the expansion of the Tabora airport and the construction of the Kazilambwa-Chagu Road in Western Tanzania.
The Tabora airport is being upgraded by the Beijing Construction Engineering Group from China at the cost of TZS 24.6 billion.
Established in 1940, the airport has undergone continuous improvements and its completion will enable larger aircraft to use the airport.
The 36 km Kazilambwa-Chagu Road is part of the larger 156-kilometer Kaliua-Malagarasi-Ilunde road project, and its completion will connect the Tabora and Kigoma regions by tarmac.
Speaking during the events, Dr. Mpango urged the Ministry of Works and the Ministry of Transport to ensure that the projects are completed on time and that the value of the investment is realized.
On his part, the Deputy Minister of Works, Engineer Godfrey Kasekenya noted that the renovation and expansion of the airport has reached 72% and the passenger terminal will be able to handle 120 passengers once it is completed.
“This project also includes the runway, control tower, access and parking roads for the airplanes, the airport’s entrance road, vehicle parking, security fencing, and a weather station,” explained Engineer Kasekenya.
He added that the construction of the Kazilambwa-Chagu Road is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to improve transportation services and create economic benefits for the citizens.
Furthermore, Kasekenya mentioned that the government will continue to connect asphalt roads in the western regions to improve accessibility and stimulate the production of food and commercial goods boosting the economy.
The Tabora Region
Located in mid-western Tanzania, the Tabora region has a population of approximately 3.3 million people, making it the third most populous region in the country.
The region is renowned for tobacco farming, with tobacco production rising from 55,357 tons in 2007/2008 to 94,243 tons in 2009/2010, an increase of 33,502 tons or 55% compared to the previous year.
With over 95% of the crop being sold in international markets, tobacco sales have increased from US$ 106.3 million in 2020/2021 to US$ 389.6 million by December 2023.
