Modern Railway Set to Transform Western Tanzania into a Strategic Trade and Investment Hub
KIGOMA - 20 July 2026: President Samia Suluhu Hassan is today expected to launch one of Tanzania's most significant transport infrastructure projects by laying the foundation stone for the 506-kilometre Tabora-Kigoma Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), a project valued at US$2.74 billion (approximately TZS 7.12 trillion).
The milestone project is expected to usher in a new era of economic growth across western Tanzania by improving transport efficiency, lowering logistics costs, strengthening regional trade and attracting new investment opportunities.
The foundation stone ceremony forms part of President Samia's one-day working visit to Kigoma Region, where she will also inaugurate four new cargo vessels operating on Lake Tanganyika and inspect the renovated cargo terminal at Kigoma Port, reinforcing the government's commitment to developing an integrated transport network.
A Major Step in Tanzania's Infrastructure Transformation
Speaking to journalists ahead of the visit, Minister for Transport Prof. Makame Mbarawa said the electrified SGR line will significantly improve connectivity between Tanzania's western regions and the Indian Ocean coast.
According to the Minister, the railway will reduce transport costs, improve the competitiveness of businesses, facilitate faster movement of goods and passengers, and unlock new economic opportunities across the country.
The Tabora-Kigoma section represents Lot Six of Tanzania's expanding Standard Gauge Railway network and will connect Kigoma to major commercial centres including Tabora, Shinyanga, Mwanza, Dodoma, Morogoro and Dar es Salaam.
Strengthening Regional Trade
Beyond domestic connectivity, the railway is expected to strengthen Tanzania's position as a regional logistics hub.
Prof. Mbarawa noted that the line will eventually connect with the planned Uvinza-Musongati Railway, linking Tanzania with Burundi and enhancing trade across the Great Lakes Region.
The project will also strengthen railway connections with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and, in the longer term, Zambia, further positioning the Port of Dar es Salaam as the preferred gateway for international trade through the Central Corridor.
The expanded railway network is expected to facilitate cross-border trade, reduce transit times and improve supply chain efficiency for landlocked neighbouring countries.
Supporting Tanzania Development Vision 2050
The Minister said the project forms part of the implementation of Tanzania Development Vision 2050, which prioritises the development of an integrated, modern and efficient transport system capable of supporting industrialisation, trade expansion and sustainable economic growth.
The government expects the investment to improve both passenger and freight transport services while enhancing Tanzania's competitiveness as a regional transport and logistics hub.
Kigoma Residents Welcome the Historic Project
Kigoma Regional Commissioner and former Inspector General of Police, Ambassador Simon Sirro, described the SGR and accompanying maritime projects as transformative investments that will accelerate economic development across the region.
He encouraged residents to participate in the historic event, noting that the projects will create new opportunities in trade, investment, tourism and employment.
Local residents also expressed optimism about the railway's economic potential.
Mr. Ruhava Hussein, a resident of Mwambwe Ward in Kigoma Ujiji Municipality, said the ageing railway infrastructure has for years limited transport services for traders and residents.
"The railway is part of our identity, but it is also the backbone of our economy. Many traders in Kigoma depend on rail transport to move goods to and from Dar es Salaam. The SGR will transform our businesses and improve our livelihoods," he said.
He commended the government for ensuring Kigoma remains part of Tanzania's broader development agenda.
Similarly, Mr. Idd Said from Kabwe Ward welcomed the project, saying improved transport infrastructure will make Kigoma more accessible while stimulating investment and business growth.
"We thank God for this modern railway. Once it becomes operational, Kigoma will become more accessible and there will be many more opportunities for business, investment and development," he said.
A New Economic Gateway for Western Tanzania
The Tabora-Kigoma SGR project represents another major milestone in Tanzania's ambitious infrastructure development programme. Combined with ongoing investments in ports, roads and aviation, the railway is expected to improve regional integration, facilitate trade, lower transport costs and stimulate economic activity across western Tanzania and neighbouring countries.
As construction progresses, the project is anticipated to become a catalyst for industrial development, tourism expansion and enhanced regional commerce, reinforcing Tanzania's strategic role as East and Central Africa's logistics gateway.
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