Tanzania opens longest bridge in East Africa
Tanzania has completed East Africa's longest bridge, a landmark 3.2-kilometre structure spanning Lake Victoria in the country's northwestern Mwanza region. Named the Magufuli Bridge after the late President John Magufuli, the £240 million ($300 million) project represents a significant infrastructure achievement for the nation.
The bridge, which connects the Misungwi and Sengerema districts, was constructed by Chinese firms China Civil Engineering Construction Group and China Railway. Notably, the Tanzanian government fully funded the project, which commenced in December 2019 but faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
As the only extra-dosed cable-stayed bridge in the Lake Victoria region, it stands as one of Africa's top 10 longest bridges. The structure serves as a vital transport link between Tanzania and its neighbours Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda.
Construction was completed on 6th October 2023, marked by the pouring of the final cement tank. Originally named the Kigongo-Busisi Bridge, it was later renamed to honour former President Magufuli, who initiated the project before his death in 2021.
This infrastructure development significantly enhances regional connectivity in East Africa.
Source: The Guardian