Government Pays TZS 1.6 Billion to 213 Uvinza Residents Affected by SGR Phase Six Project from Tabora to Kigoma

The Government, through the Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC), has paid a total of TZS 1.6 billion in compensation to 213 residents of Mpeta Village in Uvinza District, Kigoma Region, who have been affected by the implementation of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Phase Six Project from Tabora to Kigoma.

Hassan Mbaga, a valuer and supervisor of the compensation exercise from the Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC), stated that the SGR project involves both design and construction stages. Therefore, land acquisition for project activities is being carried out in phases, making the compensation exercise continuous.

Mr Mbaga further explained that in the second phase of the compensation exercise for the Tabora–Kigoma section, the Government disbursed TZS 1.6 billion to 213 residents of Mpeta Village in Uvinza District, Kigoma Region.

Speaking during the exercise, the Nguruka Division Executive Officer, Mr Lyola Proches, who represented the District Commissioner of Uvinza, Hon. Dinah Mathaman, urged the beneficiaries to use the compensation funds wisely. He emphasised, “I urge you to make proper use of the funds you have received, particularly to restore the properties that were acquired, rather than spending the money irresponsibly,” said Mr Lyola Proches.

Meanwhile, one of the beneficiaries from Mpeta Village, Mr Lifa Hamad Alpha, speaking on behalf of fellow residents, expressed gratitude to the Sixth Phase Government for fulfilling its promise to compensate them and for restoring their rice storage facilities, enabling them to continue with agricultural activities.

In a related development, TRC’s Social Officer, Ms Lucy Maroda, noted that the awareness education provided during the compensation process will help the beneficiaries to achieve their intended goals and improve their economic well-being.