Africa-Press – Tanzania. THE ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has directed Igunga District Commissioner, Sauda Mtondoo to meet with small-scale miners and address their complaints regarding a Chinese investor operating in the area.
CCM National Secretary for Ideology, Publicity and Training, Kenani Kihongosi issued the directive over the weekend, after receiving grievances from miners, while inspecting the construction of Ilobogero Preand Primary School.
“The party listens to everyone. This country belongs to all of us and every citizen has rights,” Mr Kihongosi told the group.
“We have received and understood your complaints. The District Commissioner will meet with you directly to find a way forward.”
Mr Kihongosi is on a regional tour to assess party structures at the grassroots level, inspect government development projects and listen to and resolve citizens’ concerns.
He said that the government is committed to ensuring that the mining sector benefits all Tanzanians, including small scale miners who contribute significantly to employment and local economic activity.
He added that if the issue exceeds district authority, it should be escalated to the Regional Commissioner and, if necessary, to the Ministry of Minerals for a sustainable resolution.
He also said that the government will implement its pledge to upgrade the 11-kilometre Nkinga Road to tarmac level, as outlined in its 2025–2030 Election Manifesto.
While addressing residents of Nkinga Ward in Igunga District, Tabora Region, during a public rally held recently, Mr Kihongosi reassured residents who have long complained about the poor state of the road that the government recognises the problem and is committed to addressing it.
“The road was included in our election manifesto and during the campaign period the presidential candidate, now President, Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, clearly said that the 11 kilometres would be constructed. Development is a gradual process, but I am confident this project will be completed just like others implemented elsewhere. Citizens should remain patient,” he said.
In addition to the road concerns, residents called for urgent rehabilitation of Isigiro Bridge, citing severe difficulties during the rainy season that disrupt economic activities.
They noted that the road serves a significant economic corridor connecting more than four wards, and its poor condition, particularly the damaged bridge, affects trade and daily livelihoods, especially during the rainy season.
Residents also raised concerns over water shortages in several villages, saying they are forced to walk long distances to access water.
The situation, they said, particularly affects maternal health services in facilities where water supply remains unreliable.
Responding to the concerns, Mr Kihongosi said the government has extended a water pipeline network from Ziba to Nkinga, with implementation currently at 97 per cent. Upon completion, the project is expected to benefit 32,979 residents in nine villages.
The project, which sources water from Lake Victoria, has cost more than 2.4bn/- and includes the construction of 37 distribution points.
He further pledged to consult the Minister for Water, Mr Jumaa Aweso to address water challenges in Swingwizi Ward by drilling boreholes to improve access.
Mr Kihongosi added that the government is working toward establishing a national water grid, similar to the national electricity grid, to ensure broader access to clean and safe water.
He also directed Igunga District Council Director Swela Hamid to allocate funds from internal revenues and the constituency development fund to complete a community-built dispensary.
Additionally, he emphasised the need to ensure that qualified youth receive the statutory 10 per cent loans allocated from council revenues.
He urged residents to strengthen cooperation among neighbours to minimise land disputes during property transactions.
