Tanzania has announced plans to construct the first-ever bridge in Africa, spanning 50 kilometers to connect the mainland to the Zanzibar Islands. The new bridge is expected to facilitate the movement of people and goods, and promote intra-Africa trade. This project is part of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s agenda to improve trade relations between Tanzania and other East African countries.
Negotiations already underway
Geofrey Kasekenya, the deputy minister of Works and Transport, announced that negotiations for the project began on March 11, 2023, and are already progressing well. The Chinese firm, M/S China Overseas Engineering Group Company (COVEC), has expressed interest in helping to build the bridge, and both sides have met to discuss the potential partnership.
The idea for the bridge was first proposed in 2020 by Tanzanians living abroad. While some citizens debated the feasibility of the 50-kilometer Zanzibar-Dar es Salaam bridge project, science and technology have shown that it is achievable with adequate funding.
Trade expansion and economic partnerships
President Samia Suluhu Hassan has made intra-Africa trade a top priority for her administration, with the bridge project being a significant step in this direction. She has placed emphasis on improving trade relations between Tanzania and other East African countries and has expressed interest in trading with West Africa.
In recent talks with the Kenyan government, Tanzania proposed a railway link between the two countries to reduce trade tariffs and boost economic growth. Tanzania also partnered with Burundi to put out a request for proposals for an electrified railway that would initially connect the two nations and pass through the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Boost in foreign direct investment
President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s business approach to governance has yielded a significant boost in foreign direct investment and economic partnerships for Tanzania. In just two years, the country has earned a reputation as the fastest-growing economy in Africa.
Positive outlook for the future
The Zanzibar-Dar es Salaam bridge project is a significant step forward for Tanzania’s economic growth and regional trade expansion. As negotiations continue, there is a positive outlook for the success of the project, with both sides working towards a mutually beneficial partnership. With President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s focus on improving trade relations and promoting intra-Africa trade, Tanzania is on its way to becoming a regional economic power.
