Barrick-Twiga Minerals to Transform Tanzania’s Lake Zone Connectivity

SATURDAY October 11, 2025

By The Tranquility News Correspondent, Tanzania

In an ambitious stride toward infrastructure advancement, in March 2024, the government, through the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS), signed a contract with China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation to build a strategic 73-kilometre Kahama-Bulyanhulu Junction – Kakola tarmac road.

This impactful project, financially backed by Barrick mines in Tanzania with a significant investment of Tsh 101.2 billion (about $ 41.3 million) addresses longstanding challenges the road’s deteriorating condition poses—especially evident during harsh weather seasons—thereby bringing much-needed relief to commuters and the surrounding communities.

It is against this backdrop that the local population sees this development as the beginning of economic liberation.

Once completed, the road will open up numerous economic opportunities including mining, agriculture, forestry, and tourism in the regions of Shinyanga, Geita, Tabora, Kagera, and Kigoma.

What makes the initiative even more exciting is the fact that the project is being funded by Barrick’s mines in the country, operated in partnership with the government through Twiga Minerals Corporation.

These mines include Bulyanhulu, North Mara, and Buzwagi (which is in the process of closure).

The implementation of this major project, funded by a leading investor in the mining sector, serves as clear evidence that the government, in collaboration with the private sector, can accomplish significant developments, especially in infrastructure such as roads and railways, which are critical drivers of economic growth and improved livelihoods.

The project also demonstrates that proper management of natural resources like minerals—coupled with responsible investment—can bring about rapid development to the country.

A single company providing a whopping $ 41.3 million to construct such a substantial section of a road to tarmac level illustrates that if the country had even 100 such major investors operating in a stable investment environment—with consistent and supportive laws and policies—significant financial contributions toward large-scale development projects could have been made.

So far, the project—being constructed by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation under the supervision of TANROADS’ special engineering consultancy unit (TECU)—is progressing well, with bridges being built in challenging sections.

Former minister for Works Innocent Bashungwa, who officiated at the signing ceremony in Kahama District, Shinyanga Region, admitted that the road had been a long-standing problem to residents.

Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan, said Minister Bashungwa, had provided a solution through strong collaboration with local investors like Barrick, by approving its construction to tarmac level.

On behalf of the government, Minister Bashungwa thanked Barrick for funding the major 73-kilometre road project, pledging that according to the contract, construction would be completed within 27 months, meaning it would be finalised by 2027.

Recently, TANROADS Shinyanga Regional Manager Engineer Joel Samwel Mwambungu inspected the construction progress and was quoted as saying the construction was progressing well.

He emphasized that the road would open the door to national economic opportunities, attract investors and local businesses, and that it was part of the government’s strategy for accelerating social and economic development in Shinyanga Region, particularly Kahama Municipality.

“Improving the road network would enhance transport efficiency,” he stressed.

The project has also brought joy to many citizens employed in various construction roles, earning income, while business owners along the route are already benefiting from increased customer traffic.

Some residents and frequent road users interviewed recently said the road had long been in terrible condition, causing major inconvenience and financial losses.

They expressed their gratitude to the government and Barrick for reconstructing it to tarmac level.

Speaking on behalf of his fellow residents, Mwandu John, a resident of Ntobo Village in Msalala District Council, said the road used to have large potholes that frequently damaged vehicles and increased living costs due to delays in travel between Kahama and Bulyanhulu—despite the fact that the distance is relatively short.

“We’re very happy to see this road being built. Apart from making life easier, it will stimulate economic development in areas that have long been held back by poor infrastructure. We’re so grateful to Barrick for continuing to prove itself as a key development partner in this region,” said Mwandu, amid applause from the floor.

Speaking on behalf of motorcycle taxi riders and vehicle drivers using the road, Samwel Petro said the poor condition of the road had long saw vehicle damage, time consumed and financial losses incurred.

He believes the new road will address this challenge, unleash business opportunities, and help many people become self-employed and improve their lives.

Recently, Barrick Mining Corporation released a feedback report on its six-year sustainability strategy, outlining its commitment to long-term value creation for all stakeholders through sincere partnerships.

According to the report, Barrick’s sustainability priorities include aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, maintaining a steadfast commitment to workplace safety, and proactively addressing and managing environmental impacts from its operations.

The report emphasizes that the company’s sustainability strategy is not just a system—it is how the company creates lasting, responsible impact.

When mining is done responsibly, it becomes a powerful force for development.

The success of communities surrounding the company’s operations is seen as the company’s success as well.

This project is a testament to Barrick’s strategy for not merely having a corporate sustainability framework, but embodying a vision for lasting, responsible impacts that seamlessly benefit the company and the communities in which they operateΩ