Rukwa airport to open up key production zone

Sumbawanga. The government has moved closer to completion of the modernised Sumbawanga Airport, an infrastructure project designed to unlock significant economic and logistical potential across the Southern Highlands zone.

Prime Minister Dr Mwigulu Nchemba has expressed strong approval of the quality and progress of the airport’s construction, commending the Ministry of Works and Tanzania National Roads Agency (Tanroads) for adhering to modern engineering standards.

His remarks followed an inspection of the project, during which he emphasised that the facility represents a milestone in regional connectivity and development.

“Congratulations to the people of Rukwa for acquiring a modern airport that will stimulate numerous economic opportunities,” Dr Nchemba said.

He underscored the transformative potential of the facility for trade, agriculture and cross‑regional exchange.

Deputy Minister for Works, Mr Godfrey Kasekenya, reported that the project is– being undertaken by Chinese contractor M/s Beijing Construction Engineering Group Co Ltd.

It is financed through significant investment, has reached an advanced stage and is expected to be completed imminently.

The works have progressed to approximately 96 per cent, with plans for formal handover by April 1, 2026.

The upgrade encompasses a newly built runway and taxiway, expanded parking aprons, connecting access roads and a purpose‑built passenger terminal.

According to official updates, the terminal alone is designed to serve at least 150 000 passengers annually, positioning the airport as a pivotal gateway for the wider region.

Deputy Minister for Transport, David Kihenzile, confirmed readiness within his sector to take over operations and commence commercial air services as soon as the facility is formally handed over, signalling an imminent expansion of air connectivity for Rukwa inhabitants.

Originally established in 1945 and last renovated in 1985, Sumbawanga Airport has been significantly overhauled under the current project.

The estimated investment exceeds Sh60 billion, reflecting both government commitment and strategic focus on aviation infrastructure as a lever for economic growth.

Agrarian heartland

Rukwa Region lies in the southwestern part of Tanzania and forms part of the nation’s agrarian heartland.

Agriculture accounts for the majority of household incomes in the region, with key crops such as maize, rice, beans, sunflower, wheat, millet and cassava produced across its fertile plains.

Recent agricultural seasons have seen exceptional output, with the region recording a crop harvest that exceeded official targets by nearly 103 per cent, and ranking second in the nation for overall crop production.

Despite these achievements, a substantial portion of Rukwa’s arable land remains underutilised, with continued investment anticipated to accelerate productivity and commercial farming operations.

Beyond domestic production, Rukwa’s geographical position endows it with strategic significance for cross‑border trade.

The region shares a southern border with Zambia and borders the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west across Lake Tanganyika, placing it at the nexus of regional trade corridors.

Its location provides important access to neighbouring markets for agricultural surpluses and other commodities, underlining the potential boost that expanded air connectivity could bring to both exports and regional commerce.

The completion of Sumbawanga Airport is therefore seen as a catalyst that will not only improve domestic transportation but also strengthen Rukwa’s role as a production and trade hub in southwestern Tanzania.