The completion of the John Pombe Magufuli Bridge nears
John Pombe Magufuli (JPM) Bridge, linking the Lake Zone to neighboring areas
The construction of the John Pombe Magufuli (JPM) Bridge, linking the Lake Zone to neighboring areas, is nearing completion with 96.4% of the work done. Soon, the commute across the Kigongo-Busisi stretch will drop from nearly two hours to a mere five to 15 minutes. This enhancement will significantly benefit the residents of Misungwi, Sengerema, Kagera, and Geita by reducing travel time and boosting local development activities.
Works Minister Mr. Abdallah Ulega, during a recent press briefing following a project inspection, applauded the construction progress. The bridge, which began construction on February 25, 2020, has advanced swiftly under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership, from 25% completion since she took office.
The government's funding has escalated from an initial Sh150 billion to Sh611 billion, highlighting the project's scale. The bridge, set to be the longest in East Africa, stretches over three kilometers and includes extensive features to support vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Mr. Ulega anticipates that the bridge will start operations by late February or early March, following directives from President Hassan. This development is expected to reduce the current two-hour ferry wait to just five to ten minutes, facilitating easier movement for the people in Mwanza and Geita.
Additional insights from the project’s consulting engineer, Mr. Abdulkarim Majuto, noted the installation's final stages, including safety barriers and access roads, are underway. Geita Regional Commissioner Martine Shigela also emphasized the economic upliftment the bridge will bring, particularly in addressing transportation inefficiencies in the region.
The bridge itself boasts two vehicle lanes, pedestrian pathways on each side, and an emergency parking area, designed to accommodate substantial traffic. It honors the late President John Magufuli, under whose initiative the project commenced. With 804 foundation pillars and extensive supporting structures, the bridge stands as a monumental infrastructure achievement in East and Central Africa.