LUKUMAY BACKS GOVERNMENT BUDGET 100%, URGES SWIFT ACTION ON ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE IN ARUMERU WEST

 LUKUMAY BACKS GOVERNMENT BUDGET 100%, URGES SWIFT ACTION ON ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE IN ARUMERU WEST

By Joseph Ngilisho- Arusha Digital | DODOMA

Member of Parliament for Arumeru West, Dr. Johannes Lukumay, has expressed his full support for the Government’s 2026/27 National Budget, describing it as a well-structured financial plan aimed at strengthening the national economy, improving social services, and accelerating development for Tanzanians. He, however, called on the Government to provide a lasting solution to the persistent road infrastructure challenges facing his constituency.

Speaking during the parliamentary debate on the Government Budget, Dr. Lukumay said the budget demonstrates the Sixth Phase Government’s commitment under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan to increasingly rely on domestic revenue in financing the country's development agenda.

He noted that the Government’s ability to fund nearly 70 percent of its budget through domestic revenue is a clear indication of Tanzania’s growing economic strength and self-reliance in implementing development projects.

“This is a good budget. It is well designed and aligned with the National Development Vision 2050, the Five-Year National Development Plan, and the ruling party’s election manifesto. For that reason, I support it 100 percent,” Dr. Lukumay told Parliament.

Despite praising the budget, the legislator emphasized that residents of Arumeru West continue to face significant road infrastructure challenges that hinder economic and social activities across the constituency.

He said the Government’s decision to increase allocations to the Road Fund should now translate into tangible improvements on roads linking villages and wards within Arumeru West.

Among the roads he urged the Government to prioritize are Sokon II–Bangata, Sanawari–Oldonyosambu, Sekei–Olgilai Oltroto–Mlinga, Sambasha–Olamotonyi–Ngaramtoni, Lekamba–Kisongo–Musa, Kilimamoto–Mwandeti, Losinoni Juu–Kisimiri, Ngoroppo–Emaoi, and Maji Moto–Kalangai.

“Our people need to see the benefits of this good budget through improved roads. Infrastructure is the backbone of economic growth, trade, agriculture, tourism, and social services. The Government should utilize the increased Road Fund resources to address these challenges,” he stressed.

On the water sector, Dr. Lukumay commended the Government for continuing to implement various water supply projects in his constituency, saying the initiatives would help reduce the burden on residents who currently travel long distances in search of clean and safe water.

He also advised the Government to strengthen healthcare services by ensuring that the Medical Stores Department (MSD) is paid its outstanding debts, enabling it to procure sufficient medicines and medical supplies for hospitals, health centers, and dispensaries across the country.

According to Dr. Lukumay, increased investment in primary healthcare and community-based health facilities would play a critical role in reducing preventable deaths and improving the overall well-being of citizens.

Concluding his contribution, the MP congratulated President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her leadership and for overseeing a budget that prioritizes economic growth, social services, and national development.

“As we approve this budget, the expectations of the people of Arumeru West are that their challenges will be addressed. Our top priorities are roads, water, and quality healthcare services. Once these are delivered, citizens will truly experience the value of this budget in their daily lives,” he said.

Dr. Lukumay’s remarks have renewed hope among residents of Arumeru West, many of whom expect the Government to intensify efforts to improve road infrastructure—a long-standing concern that has affected transportation, business activities, and access to essential services throughout the constituency.

Ends.