DAR ES SALAAM, May 27 -- ACROSS Sub-Saharan Africa, cities are increasingly under pressure from rapid urbanisation, with expanding populations often outpacing infrastructure, planning systems, and service delivery. Many urban centres are already grappling with overcrowded settlements, informal housing, traffic congestion, inadequate sanitation, environmental degradation, and rising unemployment.

In response to these challenges, Tanzania is pursuing a deliberate and forward-looking strategy designed to prevent uncontrolled urban growth before it becomes a crisis. Rather than reacting to urban problems after they emerge, the country is focusing on proactive planning, guided development, and infrastructure investment aimed at shaping cities...