CONSTRUCTION OF THE ISONGOLE-ISOKO ASPHALT ROAD IS NOW OFFICIAL, CONTRACTOR INTRODUCED TO THE PUBLIC
The government has officially announced the commencement of the construction of the Isongole II – Ibungu – Isoko asphalt road, covering a distance of 52.419 kilometers, with the project contractor, China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), introduced to the public.
Speaking today, March 7, 2025, to the residents of Isongole Ward in Ileje District, the Deputy Minister of Works, Engineer Godfrey Kasekenya, stated that President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government has approved and allocated funds for the construction, despite misleading claims from some individuals who alleged that the project would not be implemented.
He added that the government has already disbursed TZS 7.2 billion as an initial payment to the contractor, while the total cost of the project exceeds TZS 75 billion.
Deputy Minister Kasekenya, who is also the Member of Parliament for Ileje, emphasized that infrastructure improvement, particularly roads, is a major catalyst for development, especially for the youth.
"Today is not the official launch of this project, as my Minister will come to officiate that, but as the Deputy Minister responsible and the MP for this area, I have come to ensure that the contractor is ready to start work and to introduce him to the public," he said.
He assured the community that local youth would be given priority for employment opportunities arising from the project, directing project supervisors to ensure that all non-specialized jobs are allocated to young people from Ileje. He also praised the contractor, CRBC, as hardworking and experienced in road construction.
Additionally, he stated that the contractor has been given strict instructions to adhere to the quality standards outlined in the construction contract while respecting the customs, traditions, and regulations of Ileje residents.
On his part, the CCM District Secretary for Ideology and Publicity in Ileje, Maoni Mbuba, highlighted that the project would open up numerous opportunities for the people of Ileje, marking a significant step in the district’s development.
"The completion of this road will ease transportation and trade, linking Ileje District to Kyela District in Mbeya Region and strengthening cross-border trade between Tanzania and Malawi through the Isongole and Kasumulu border posts," said Mbuba.
Representing the District Commissioner of Ileje, Irene Limo, who serves as the Divisional Officer for Bulambya, emphasized that the government has been at the forefront of allocating substantial funds for development projects in the district.
Speaking on behalf of CRBC, Project Manager Mr. Wang Zheng stated that on Monday, March 10, the company would begin mobilizing construction machinery, and the project is expected to be completed within 28 months. He appealed for cooperation from the public to ensure the project is completed on time.
The Chairman of Isongole Village, Kalela Masimbi, urged the government and MP Kasekenya to ensure that local residents are prioritized for job opportunities arising from the road construction to enable them to benefit economically rather than remain mere spectators.
Residents of Isongole welcomed the announcement of the road construction with joy, expressing their hope that it would eliminate transportation challenges and boost their businesses.
They also extended a warm welcome to CRBC in Ileje District, pledging their full support and cooperation in the implementation of the project.






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