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MCC experts assess US-funded road projects
2008-07-03 10:31:34
By Guardian Reporter
A joint team that includes representatives from Millennium Challenge Account -Tanzania, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (both MCC/Washington and the resident country mission in Tanzania), and from the US Army Corps of Engineers, are currently making assessment of the country`s road projects to be funded by the US government.
Already, the team had visited Ruvuma, Mbeya, and Rukwa regions, from the initial assessment mission. It includes Tanzanian and American experts in civil and structural engineering as well as environmental and social impact assessment.
A statement issued by the US Embassy in Dar es Salaam yesterday said the team had examined roads that are to be rehabilitated under the Millennium Challenge Compact signed by Presidents George Bush and Jakaya Kikwete in February, 2008.
In the course of assessment, the team members met with various local officials, including Regional Commissioners in Rukwa, Ruvuma and Mbeya, as well as technical staff from the local offices of TANROADS.
The purpose of the trip was to familiarize the visiting members of the team with the actual conditions in the region, as they continue to review and assess the existing road designs, and the state of existing plans for handling environmental and social impacts, read part of the statement.
The rehabilitation of respective major roads requires not only careful and detailed engineering designs, but also comprehensive plans to avoid or mitigate any adverse environmental or social impacts on those who will be affected.
MCC Senior Director Nancy Convard, an expert in civil engineering and environmental engineering, said proper civil engineering must fully take into account appropriate environmental and social planning into the designs themselves, using an integrative approach that minimises negative impacts and maximises the ultimate benefits made available to all.
The team explored the roads from Namtumbo to Mbinga, and from Tunduma to Sumbawanga. These road segments are part of the larger Transport Sector Project under the Compact, which will also include upgrading of Mafia island airport, as well as the rehabilitation of the road between Tanga and Horohoro and up to 36 kilometers of rural roads on Pemba Island in Zanzibar.
As many including President Kikwete have noted, the current transport infrastructure in Tanzania is inadequate to meet the needs of the country’s widely dispersed population.
Roads are essential for commerce, especially agricultural commerce, and trade between Tanzania and its neighbours.
Improved roads will also help connect communities with schools and health clinics and promote the expansion of economic opportunities by reducing transport costs and thus increasing the incomes of local farmers.
The Millennium Challenge Compact also includes components that will provide significant assistance in the energy and water sectors.
A total of USD 698.1 million in U.S. assistance will be provided under the Compact over a period of the next five years.
When President Bush visited Tanzania in February he said his government would not give money to people who would end steal it.
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