News
SMEC
technical
specialists
to
drive
transformative
urban
infrastructure,
Tanzania
SMEC has commenced work on a crucial assignment to provide technical support to the Tanzania Cities Transforming Infrastructure and Competitiveness (TACTIC) project. Working across forty-five different Local Government Authorities (LGA), SMEC will leverage international multi-disciplinary expertise to deliver sustainable urban infrastructure solutions nationwide.

Sponsored by the President’s Office for Regional Administration and Local Government, TACTIC aims to strengthen urban management and improve essential infrastructure and services in transport, water management and sanitation. These elements contribute to TACTIC’s broader goal of enhancing urban resilience, social inclusivity and prosperity.

 


Images courtesy of World Bank and Fundi Films

 

Comprehensive program management

As part of the project scope, SMEC will provide implementation support and capacity development to ensure compliance with International Development Association policies and operational standards.

 

SMEC will provide the LGAs with advice on how to plan, coordinate and implement infrastructure project activities, ensuring consistent processes and reporting guidelines. The team will assist in design review and drafting of Terms of Reference for effective procurement of services.  The scope also includes development of ongoing training programs for LGA staff.

 

Once projects commence, regular monitoring of sub-projects will be conducted to ensure compliance with environmental and social safeguards. Quarterly technical assistance reports will summarise challenges, solutions and progress in accordance with International Development Association guidelines.

 

The TACTIC project will span 45 cities, organised into three tiers based on population and growth potential, each requiring tailored interventions to address unique urbanisation challenges:

  • Tier 1 – Arusha, Dodoma, Tabora, Kigoma Ujiji, Mwanza, Ilemela Geita, Kahama, Morogoro, Songea, Mbeya, Sumbawanga.
  • Tier 2 – Tanga, Korogwe, Moshi, Babati, Singida, Shinyanga, Bukoba, Musoma, Bariadi, Kibaha, Lindi, Mtwara Mikindani, Mpanda, Njombe, Iringa.
  • Tier 3 – Kasulu, Nzega, Chato, Tarime, Bunda, Mbulu, Kondoa, Handeni, Bagamoyo, Ifakara, Mafinga, Mbinga, Tunduma, Vwawa, Makambako, Masasi, Nanyamba, Newala.
Our engagement in the TACTIC project underscores SMEC's commitment to fostering sustainable urban development across Tanzania. By collaborating closely with local authorities and communities, we aim to deliver infrastructure solutions that not only meet immediate needs but also support long-term growth and resilience."
— Jerobiam Dongwi, Roads and Highways Lead, Regional Africa

Project stages

SMEC’s role will be structured across four key stages:

  • Stage 1: Planning and mobilisation: Engaging with LGAs, conducting baseline assessments and finalising participatory frameworks.
  • Stage 2: Capacity building and design: SMEC will deliver training programs for local officials, developing high-impact project designs and ensuring compliance with World Bank standards.
  • Stage 3: Construction supervision and quality assurance: Overseeing project implementation, monitoring environmental and social safeguards, and maintaining strict quality controls.
  • Stage 4: Project completion and handover: Ensuring a seamless transition with final assessments and knowledge transfer to local teams.

Agile delivery model

The program is set to be delivered over four years. Mobilisation and stakeholder engagement activities are underway with construction of sub projects expected to begin in 2025. SMEC will use a decentralised project management model, leveraging regional hubs for efficient oversight and quick decision-making.

By integrating innovative solutions and fostering strong partnerships with local governments, SMEC is committed to delivering lasting, transformative impacts across Tanzania. TACTIC will enable better service delivery, enhanced infrastructure, and increased resilience to urbanisation challenges, directly improving the quality of life for millions of residents.