Minister Ulega criticizes delays in the BRT Phase IV project
Minister of Works Abdallah Ulega expresses strong dissatisfaction with the slow progress
The BRT Phase IV project plays an important role in improving the city’s transport system by reducing congestion and making movement easier. However, concerns have arisen over delays in the project, with Minister of Works Abdallah Ulega expressing strong dissatisfaction with the slow progress.
During an inspection on February 5, Mr. Ulega criticized the Chinese contractor, China Geo-Engineering Corporation, for not meeting deadlines despite already receiving a payment of Sh36 billion. The project covers 15.6 kilometres from Mwenge to Tegeta and 13.6 kilometres from Mwenge to Ubungo.
The minister was particularly frustrated with the slow pace of work, especially the delays in pouring concrete even though excavation had already been completed.
"You've dug up the entire road, but you're not working on it. Why do you only have one concrete production machine when there’s just a month left on your contract?" he questioned.
"Why is there no concrete yet? Are you aware the coming rainy season will wash everything away?" he added.
He also reminded the contractor that payment had already been made, questioning their seriousness in completing the job.
"You have our money, but you're not working properly. Why are you relaxing? You're behind schedule and still not working efficiently," he said.
Beyond the project itself, Mr. Ulega warned that the delays could harm the diplomatic relationship between Tanzania and China.
"Why are you playing with us? Let me remind you, Tanzania and China have a long history of friendship—do you want to ruin that?" he warned.
He made it clear that the contractor could face serious consequences for the delays.
"As long as I am the Works Minister in Tanzania, I will not recommend you for any other projects here," he declared.
The minister also linked the ongoing delays to the worsening traffic problems in Dar es Salaam.
"Do you realise that Dar es Salaam now has the worst traffic jams, and your delays are making the situation worse?" he said.
In addition to criticizing the contractor, Mr. Ulega also blamed the project consultant for not taking proper action.
"They have failed, but you’re just watching. I will not give you any more consulting jobs because you have not done your duty. I don’t even have a single report on my desk from Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanroads) saying you advised them after underperformance," he added.
With the contractor falling behind schedule, concerns continue to grow over whether the BRT Phase IV project will be completed on time.
