A significant investment by the World Bank aims to improve urban mobility and accessibility in Dodoma, Tanzania's capital. This initiative is expected to unlock economic opportunities and create over 10,000 jobs by 2030, while enhancing the city's economic output by 2%.
The $200 million Dodoma Integrated and Sustainable Transport (DIST) project, recently approved by the World Bank Board of Executive Directors, will benefit more than 430,000 residents, which includes a significant portion of women and youth. The funding from the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA) focuses on upgrading selected corridors, resilient access routes, central business district improvements, and enhanced walking and cycling infrastructure.
"Dodoma’s rapid expansion since 2016 presents both opportunities and challenges,” stated Nathan Belete, World Bank Division Director for Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. “As the city grows, ensuring access to safe and efficient transport is critical to sustaining its economic momentum and improving the quality of life for its residents. This project will help Dodoma grow in a more sustainable way."
Since the Tanzanian government's decision in 2016 to move its national capital from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma—originally decided in 1973—the city has experienced significant population growth. This shift has necessitated considerable capital investment in infrastructure. By 2022, Dodoma's population reached over 765,000 with an annual growth rate of 6.4%, straining existing resources.
“Addressing urban mobility challenges early on is critical,” said Adam Diehl, World Bank Senior Transport Specialist and Task Team Leader. "We are proud to be part of this integrated approach by the Government of Tanzania."
The DIST Project consists of three components aimed at supporting safe and inclusive accessibility in Dodoma City:
1. Strategic Multimodal Corridors: Focuses on improving infrastructure on key mobility corridors.
2. Improved Access: Supports investments for reliable local neighborhood roads with pedestrian and cycling facilities.
3. Institutional Enabling Environment: Establishes coordination among key stakeholders like TANROADS and TARURA.
The project will be implemented collaboratively by several agencies including TANROADS, CCD, LATRA, and TARURA.
Additionally, preparation for DIST was supported by various global programs such as the Global Smart City Partnership Program and others focused on disaster risk management.