Historic Tanzanian mosque faces demolition for new road construction
The Tanzanian government has announced plans to demolish an over 150-year-old mosque in Mbalizi, to make way for road construction works in the Mbeya Region.
The construction of the Mbalizi-Makongolosi road, according to the government, falls in line with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s efforts to improve infrastructure in the country.
The development has sparked mixed reactions and concerns about the loss of the historical landmark which has served as a place of worship for Muslims across the country and as a monument since 1826.
“The mosque has a rich history, but it will be taken down to allow for the road construction,” District Commissioner Mbaraka Batenga said during the Maulid celebrations.
Batenga who spoke on behalf of Mbeya Regional Commissioner Juma Homera confirmed that the project is part of the Tanzanian government’s sixth phase of development initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure.
Leadership of the Muslims Council of Tanzania has initiated plans for the construction of a new mosque to replace the existing one.
“Our elders did great things, and I commend the leaders for starting the construction of another mosque,” Batenga said while commending leadership for the steps. ‘History is being erased to make way for development but we are building a new mosque that will continue to honour our predecessors,” he was quoted as saying.
The new mosque is projected to cost an estimated 42 million Tanzanian Shillings (approximately $15,391.96).
