Disparities in the Socio-Economic Impacts of Road Improvements Across Rural Communities in Kilosa, Tanzania (2019-2025)

Swaibu Selemani Ole; Jaha Mulema

doi:10.37284/eajass.8.2.3110

Swaibu Selemani Ole Muslim University of Morogoro
Jaha Mulema, PhD Muslim University of Morogoro

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37284/eajass.8.2.3110

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الملخص

This study investigated the disparities in the socio-economic impacts of road infrastructure development on rural livelihoods across three distinct communities (Mkwatani, Magomeni, and Dumila wards) in Kilosa District, Tanzania, covering the period 2019-2025. Improved road infrastructure is widely acknowledged as a catalyst for socio-economic development, yet its benefits are not always uniformly distributed. This research employed a mixed-methods approach, utilising an explanatory sequential design. Quantitative data were collected via questionnaires administered to 384 residents, while qualitative data were gathered through in-depth interviews with key informants. The findings revealed significant variations in perceived impacts across the studied wards. For instance, a substantial majority (89.1%) of respondents in Mkwatani reported noticeable improvements in road infrastructure and subsequent positive impacts on market access, whereas in Dumila, nearly half (49.2%) perceived no improvements. Similarly, while road improvements positively affected children's school attendance in Mkwatani (51.6%), the benefits were less pronounced in other wards. Dumila ward reported a comparatively larger impact on increased tourism activities (43.0%) due to road improvements, though this was not a universally strong outcome. Overall, the study highlights that while road infrastructure development can enhance access to markets, essential services, and mobility, these impacts are heterogeneous, contingent on localised factors and the extent of the improvements. The study underscores the need for targeted and equitable road development strategies to ensure inclusive benefits for all rural communities.

التنزيلات

بيانات التنزيل غير متوفرة بعد.

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