DODOMA: The construction of Msalato International Airport in Dodoma has reached its final phase, with the infrastructure works 89% complete and the buildings at 78%.
Mohamed Besta, Chief Executive Engineer of the Tanzania National Roads Agency (TANROADS), informed journalists at the site that infrastructure is expected to be finished by November, while the buildings should be completed by December.
TANROADS is closely monitoring the progress of contractors to ensure remaining tasks are completed on time. The project, funded by the Tanzanian government and the African Development Bank (AfDB), aims to enhance air transport infrastructure and increase the capacity for passengers and cargo.
Once operational, the airport will offer Dodoma a modern facility for both domestic and international flights, creating new opportunities for trade, investment, tourism, and employment.
Currently, the infrastructure package is 89.02% complete, with the runway at 98%, taxiways and aircraft apron at 99%, and access roads and parking areas at 75%. The water supply system stands at 89%, while fencing and gates are 76% complete. Electrical works and aircraft guidance equipment are at 90%. Remaining tasks include landscaping, airfield lighting, and communication systems.
The buildings package is 78.37% complete, with the passenger terminal at 81%, air traffic control tower at 74%, fire station at 88%, and meteorological services building at 87%.
The project has created jobs for 9,059 Tanzanians, with 3,571 under package one and 5,488 under package two, along with 47 foreign workers. Once finished, the airport will meet Category 4E standards under the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and feature a 3,600-metre runway, with capacity for up to 1.5 million passengers annually, accommodating large aircraft like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Besta encouraged Dodoma residents to prepare for the anticipated business opportunities following the airport’s opening.
