Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has announced the successful completion of the Kidaho-Ovinza road project in Tanzania which was funded by the entity.

It is part of the proposed 604-km highway that connects the eastern and western regions of Tanzania.

The new road was opened in the presence of Tanzanian President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, Abdullah Ibrahim Al Suwaidi, the UAE Ambassador to Tanzania and delegation from ADFD.

The 51-km-long road project was funded by ADFD through the allocation of an Dh170 million ($46.12 million) concessionary loan.

The project aims to serve as a vital link between Kidaho, Ovinza and other cities located between them and facilitate easy movement of people and merchandise with the neighbouring countries, boosting the overall economic activity within Tanzania, said a statement from ADFD.

Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, the ADFD director general, stressed the UAE’s keenness to promote excellent bilateral relations with friendly African countries and eventually achieve the mutual interests for both sides.

"ADFD enjoys outstanding relations with Tanzania and we have administered the provision of concessionary loans and management of government grants to the tune of Dh233 million ($64 million) in the country. This fund was allocated towards the financing of four development projects across vital economic sectors including industry, transport and water.”

The gravel road was constructed to connect Ovinza and Olende cities up to Kalgrasse with a 1.5-m shoulder in each direction.

The project also includes a number of small bridges to facilitate the passage of water from the valleys along with traffic signs and instructions.-TradeArabia News Service