Georgina Misama Provides In-depth Coverage on the Msimbazi Basin Project
The government, through the Tanzania Urban and Rural Roads Agency (TARURA),
to commence Msimbazi Valley Project Implementation in Dar es Salaam on April 15, 2024, with the demolition of structures in the Jangwani area and along the Msimbazi Riverbanks.
In a press briefing held today, April 12, 2024, within the city of Dar es Salaam, Mr. Mobhare Matinyi, Director of the Information Department and Chief Spokesman of the Government, announced TARURA's forthcoming implementation of a project in accordance with its agreement with local residents. Under this agreement, residents' properties will undergo evaluation, followed by compensation disbursement. Subsequently, TARURA will commence demolition of the designated properties six weeks after compensation funds have been deposited into residents' accounts.
He said that as of February 29, 2024, TARURA had already paid compensation amounting to 52.61 billion shillings to the accounts of about 2,155 of the 2,329 home owners registered in the first register, where it is currently completing compensation payments to 446 other parties included in the second register who were not subjected to the initial valuation for various reasons.
Matinyi further emphasized that TARURA will collaborate closely with the Dar es Salaam regional council offices in the project areas to ensure meticulous and precise execution. Highlighting the objectives of the Msimbazi Basin Project, he underscored its overarching goals, which encompass mitigating the impacts of floods, enhancing land utilization efficiency, combating soil erosion, fostering the restoration of natural vegetation, facilitating the unimpeded flow of river water to the sea, and implementing comprehensive water management strategies.
Matinyi outlined that the project's completion is anticipated within a five-year timeframe, culminating in the year 2028. The estimated budget for this endeavor stands at 260 million US dollars, equivalent to 675 billion Tanzanian shillings. These financial resources will be allocated towards several key initiatives, primarily focused on flood mitigation and infrastructure development. These initiatives include the construction of flood management infrastructure, such as a garage for express buses in the Ubungo Maziwa area, subsequent to its relocation from the Jangwani. Additionally, the project entails the construction of a bridge in the Jangwani Area, the establishment of a city park, and the development of both residential and commercial zones. Furthermore, essential measures such as the widening and deepening of the Msimbazi River and robust solid waste management strategies are integral components of the project's comprehensive approach.
Responding to inquiries regarding the duration of the demolition process, Engineer Humphrey Kanyeye, the Coordinator of World Bank Projects, stated that they anticipate the exercise to conclude within a timeframe of three (3) months. This timeline accounts for certain residents in the area who are still undergoing the compensation payment process. Kanyeye highlighted that this pause in the payment process is crucial to address any arising issues comprehensively, ensuring a smooth and efficient demolition process.
Kanyeye elaborated that TARURA will oversee the demolition process in collaboration with other pertinent institutions, including the Tanzania Electricity Corporation (TANESCO) and the Dar es Salaam Water and Wastewater Authority (DAWASA). This collaborative effort aims to ensure the smooth coordination of activities and the seamless execution of the demolition exercise.
Furthermore, TARURA extends an invitation to citizens with queries or concerns regarding the demolition exercise to reach out for clarification. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact TARURA via the provided phone numbers: 0738-353854 or 0738-353855. These lines are dedicated to addressing inquiries and providing necessary assistance to the community.
