Rais Samia Launches Pangani Bridge and Road Project to Unlock Economic Opportunities in Tanga

On February 26, 2025, the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Pangani Bridge and the 256-kilometer Bagamoyo(Makurunge)–Saadani–Tanga road.

The new road, which will connect the coastal regions of Pwani and Tanga through Pangani, is expected to open up significant opportunities for economic growth, tourism, and business in the areas it will serve.

The ceremony took place in Pangani District, continuing the president’s working visit to the Tanga region. President Dr. Samia emphasized that this road will be integrated with other development corridors, including an Economic Zone and a modern Port that will be developed in Bagamoyo, further driving economic opportunities for Tanzanians.

The project, supported by funding from the African Development Bank (AfDB), aligns with the government’s goal of improving infrastructure and transportation, fostering economic development, and enhancing production capacities across the country.

In addition to the road development, President Dr. Samia also distributed 35 fishing boats and 60 auxiliary boats to fishermen in Pangani on a loan basis. These boats, capable of carrying 3 to 5 tons of fish, are part of a government initiative to provide 120 fishing boats and 118 auxiliary boats to fishermen nationwide, aimed at strengthening the fishing industry.

The president urged the beneficiaries to maintain the boats and repay the loans so that others across the country can benefit from this initiative.

Earlier in the day, President Dr. Samia also laid the foundation stone for a mosque being built by the Muslim community in Tanga City, calling on religious leaders and citizens to join the government’s efforts in combating drug abuse, which affects youth and community development.

About Tanga and Pwani Regions

Tanga and Pwani regions are key to Tanzania’s economy, contributing to agriculture, fishing, manufacturing, and tourism.

Tanga is home to the Port of Tanga, which handles significant exports of sisal, fish, and agricultural products. The region produces crops such as sugarcane, maize, and coffee. The fishing industry, particularly in Pangani, plays a major role in local employment. Tanga is also home to manufacturing industries, including sugar mills and cement factories. The region attracts tourists, with Saadani National Park and its beaches contributing to the sector.

Pwani has large-scale agricultural production, including sugarcane, rice, and cashew nuts. The region also hosts limestone deposits, which support cement production. Infrastructure projects like the Bagamoyo Port and improved road networks are enhancing trade and transportation. Pwani’s tourism sector is expanding, particularly through beach resorts and eco-tourism initiatives.

For a comprehensive overview of investment opportunities, sector developments, and government initiatives in these regions, refer to the Tanga Region Investment Guide and Pwani Region Investment Guide.