Africa-Press – Tanzania. BABATI Town Council is on the brink of a major transformation following the rollout of a 20.5bn/- infrastructural project that will deliver a modern regional bus terminal, upgraded tarmac roads and improved drainage systems under the Tanzania Cities Transforming Infrastructure and Competitiveness (TACTIC) programme.
The project is expected to ease transport challenges, curb flooding and stimulate economic activities in the fast-growing town.
Babati Town Council Director, CPA Shaaban Mpendu, said the funds will finance the construction of a modern bus terminal set to serve as Manyara Region’s main transport hub, alongside inner-town tarmac roads and stormwater and sewage drainage systems.
He noted that poor road conditions and flooding have long disrupted mobility and business activities, particularly during the rainy season.
“Some roads become impassable during rain while drainage systems overflow, causing floods. We thank President Samia Suluhu Hassan for recognising these challenges and bringing this project that will significantly improve transport and sanitation services,” he said.
Additionally, he said that the modern terminal is expected to boost local revenue collection from 40m/- annually to over 250m/- once completed, while also creating jobs through ticketing services, small businesses and food vending.
TACTIC Project Coordinator, Engineer Charles Ibengwe, said the project is financed through a concessional loan from the World Bank and includes construction of a bus terminal, 4.89 kilometres of roads, 8.15 kilometres of stormwater drains and a project management office building.
According to him, the project is scheduled for completion in October 2026.
Babati District TARURA Manager, Engineer Aloyce Nombo, said the new roads will expand the town’s tarmac road network from 14.2 kilometres to 18.9 kilometres.
He also stated that drainage systems in Maisaka, Singe and Bagara wards will help eliminate flooding in residential areas.
Installation of street lights, he noted, will enhance security and enable residents to extend business hours into the night.
Residents have welcomed the project, citing relief from longstanding infrastructure challenges.
Gendikuu resident Sara Nzowa said flooding has previously caused severe damage to homes, farms and livestock, but expressed optimism that the new drainage systems will address the problem.
Issa Seif, a Babati resident, said improved roads and street lighting will beautify the town and create a safer environment for businesses to operate at extended hours.
Another resident, Abdulrahman Issa of Sawe, noted that land value in the area has already increased following the announcement of the road project, attributing this to improved connectivity to the Arusha highway.
Meanwhile, Justin Majagi, a local youth employed in the bus terminal construction, praised the government for creating job opportunities that are helping young people earn a living.
The TACTIC project is part of broader government efforts to modernise urban infrastructure and unlock economic potential in secondary cities across Tanzania.
