The Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) has highlighted its plan for Tanzania’s SGR expansion in the country’s northern zone. The state-owned entity has announced plans to extend the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Dar es Salaam to Musoma through Tanga, Moshi, and Arusha. The project aims to enhance connectivity in Tanzania’s northern region and is scheduled to be done by 2028. Moreover, the ambitious endeavour aligns with the government’s objective to revitalise the rail transport system.
Speaking in Dodoma, Director General of the TRC, Masanha Kadogosa highlighted that the project was on track. He noted that the studies on the proposed expansion have already been conducted. “There are other sections coming as part of the SGR expansion. These include the route from Tanga, Moshi, Arusha to Musoma,” he added. Moreover, Tanzania’s SGR expansion aligns with the country’s industrialization agenda and aims to boost regional trade. The nation seeks to achieve this by capturing cargo from neighbouring countries.
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The Scope of Implementation on Tanzania’s SGR Expansion
Tanzania’s SGR expansion in the region’s northern zone seeks to involve other stakeholders to ensure implementation. These remarks were noted by David Kafullia, Executive director of the Public-Private Partnership Center (PPPC), earlier last year. David announced plans to involve private players in three major railway projects, including the northern corridor SGR line from Tanga to Arusha and Musoma. Estimated to cost $3.3 billion, this project seeks to address transport challenges in the northern corridor. Furthermore, it aims to connect Mwambani Port in Tanga with Uganda via Lake Victoria.
The route will traverse agriculturally rich areas and link mining hubs, facilitating economic growth. Other planned projects include a railway network for Dar es Salaam commuter train services, which are in the pre-feasibility stage. Furthermore, a 1,000-kilometer SGR line from Mtwara Port to Mbambabay on Lake Nyasa is also in the works. Mr Kadogosa assured that the TRC is committed to addressing various challenges in SGR operations. These includes various measures such as staff training and equipment acquisition.
The Significance of the Tanga-Moshi-Arusha-Musoma SGR
The significance of Tanzania’s SGR expansion through the Tanga-Moshi-Arusha-Musoma SGR is expected to be unprecedented. One of its significance is becoming a critical economic artery in reducing transport costs. Moreover, it seeks to enhance efficiency and open new markets for Tanzanian products. Implications of such projects in Tanzania are already being seen, highlighted by the first phase of the SGR connecting Dar es Salaam to Morogoro. The railway line has reduced travel time from three hours to just one, a significant endeavour. Once completed, Tanzania’s expansion project is expected to enhance Tanzania’s position as a regional trade hub. It will also link neighbouring countries and promoting cross-border economic collaboration. Furthermore, it will provide opportunities for the citizens of Tanzania and improve economic growth.
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