The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has agreed to finance the upgrade works of a 51km-long section of the Uvinza-Ilunde-Malagarasi Road in Tanzania.

ADFD is set to provide a loan of AED55m ($15m) to the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania.

The project serves as an extension to Kidaho – Ovinza Road, which was also funded by ADFD as a loan of AED169m ($46m) in 2009.

ADFD director general Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi said: “The agreement reflects ADFD’s priority to support development projects across vital economic sectors in developing countries, especially the roads and transport sector.

“The Uvinza-Ilunde-Malagarasi Road upgrade is an important venture that aligns with Tanzania’s efforts to become a semi-industrial country and improve the living standards of its citizens.”

“The agreement reflects ADFD’s priority to support development projects across vital economic sectors in developing countries, especially the roads and transport sector.”

The scope of the project includes reconstruction and upgrade works of a 51km and 6.5m-wide single-lane carriageway with 1.5m wide internal and external shoulders.

This section connects the towns of Uvinza and Ilunde with the town of Malagarasi.

Furthermore, ADFD will provide consultancy services for the detailed design of the project that involves building of small crossing bridges, culverts and service ducts.

After completion, the Uvinza-Ilunde-Malagarasi Road upgrade project is expected to improve the transportation network between Dar es Salaam and the lake port town of Kigoma, as well as help improve the socio-economic status of rural populations within the region.

In addition to enhancing the domestic road network, the project is expected to boost international connectivity with neighbouring countries such as Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.