Africa-Press – Tanzania. THE government through the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) in collaboration with the Njombe regional administration has completed the assessment of a new site in the TANWAT area for the construction of a new airport, which is expected to easy air transportation and boost economic growth in the area.
Deputy Minister for Transport Mr David Kihenzile told the National Assembly that the government is aware of the importance of a modern airport in Njombe region and that plans are already in place to start the construction.
He said Njombe Airport is strategically important, particularly for enhancing air transportation in terms of social, economic and commercial development, including the export of forest products, vegetables and fruits such as avocados, which are produced and shipped abroad.
The deputy minister was responding to a question from Mr Deodatus Mwanyika (Njombe Urban-CCM), who inquired about when the government will begin the construction of a modern airport in Njombe Region.
He said the region engages in various businesses, which involve transportation of perishable goods including avocados and that a modern airport was crucial in the area to boost businesses and agriculture activities.
In response, the deputy minister said following the improvement of the national airline (ATCL), which has led to the acquisition of a large cargo aircraft (Boeing 767-300F), the government is looking forward to improving and constructing a number of airports in the country to ensure cargo transportation.
He said the government is now proceeding with the land acquisition procedures before starting the construction of the new Njombe airport.
Mr Kihenzile informed MPs that the government has approved the preliminary feasibility study and detailed design reports and that a total of 805m/- was allocated for the 2024/2025 financial year for the purpose.
He added that a consultancy firm is currently finalising the draft documents that will be used for procuring the contractor who will implement the construction project.
“Once this is completed, construction will begin based on the availability of funds. For the 2025/26 financial year, the government plans to allocate funds to complete the full feasibility study and detailed design for the airport,” he said.
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